
Class F7 5 
Book ' fc/d- 






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HISTORICAL SKETCH 

OF THE 

FIRST CHURCH IN BOSTON, 



ITS FORMATION TO THE PRESENT PERIOD. 

TO WHICH ARE ADDED 

TWO SERMONS, 

ONE ON LEAVING THE OLD, AND THE OTHER ON ENTERING 
THE NEW HOUSE OF WORSHIP. 



BY THE LATE 

REV. AVILLTAM EMERSON, A.M. A.A.S. &, S.H.S 

THE 'IWELFTU I'ASrOK. OF SAID CHURCH, 



BOSTON, 

PTTTILISHED BY MUNROE Sc FRANCIS- 
NO. 4, CORN HI LI.. 

1812. 






DISTKICV OF MASSACHUSETTS, TO Wlf ; 

District Clerk's Office. 
BE it r.iiieinbcrcil, Tiut, on the uveuy-sixih J^v "f Ueccinl.sr. A. D. ,81 1 , :iiul in t!ie 
xhirty-sUth y^ar of the iiidqvinltncc ot the UnittU St .nsor' Ameiica, RUTH EMEKSON, 
oi' the said disiriLt, Ins dciJO.siti.d in this > ffice the litit ot u book, the right whert-cf she 
CUirils, as inopricor, in the words following, to wit ; 

•' An IllSTO'.iCAL SKETCH of the FIRST GHURCrl (N BOSTON, from its firmntion to 
the prest,nl i)c. iod. To which art addtd Two Sernions, o;.t- on It.vinj; 'h <j;c1, hi <! the 
other on e.iteri % the ucw houie of worshiji. By t!ie late Rev. WILLl.-i.M EMEKiiOX, A.M. 
A. .AS. fc S.H.S. the twelfth p:i»tOP of s;iid chureli." 

lii tonfcinuty to the ^Ct of ttn^ cgngrcss of tlie United St trs, eiititied, ' .\n act f 1 r the cn- 
co'.irij.^ nie.it of le.iniing. by securing the copies of in <i|)S. cJiarts, aiul books, to ih ■ .tiithors 
and I'rjprietors of sucll copies, during the tinits therein mentioned ," anil also 10 an aci.en- 
titi'.d, " .All act snpplemcnt.ii y to an act. entitled, ;^n act for ilie ciicouraj,'enienc of learning, 
by securing the cop.es of m i]>s, ch ins, and books, to th. .tuthors and piipiictors of sucll 
topi s, ;;urii!g the tunes therein nieiu^oned ; ^nd '-itrindinjj the b^nilirs ihere<if !o iljc arts of 
O-sigliine. tngraviiiE, and etchinji historical and other p mts." 

WILLIAM S. SHAW, 
CJlerk of uic pittiii;t 01 Mass.>chusclts , 



ADVERTISEMENT OF THE EDITOliS. 



THE following work is published, without material altera- 
tions, us it wus left by the author. 

It is to be reijretted, that he did not live to complete his de- 
sign. 

To what was prepared respecting Dr. Chauncy is added a 
sketch of his family by Dr. Clarke.* 

As several of the author's late society have earnestly request- 
ed, that this history should contain some records of their two 
last beloved pastors, accounts of them have been added from 
documents, which have been already published. 

The notice of Dr. Clarke is from the collections of the Mas- 
sachusetts Historical Society, vol. vi. p. 3. consisting of a " Sketch 
of the life and character of Rev. Dr. Clarke," supposed to be 
wriucn by Rev. Dr. Belknap ; and an extract from President 
Willard's discourse, delivered at First Church, the sunday after 
the decease of Dr. Clarke. 

The account of Mr. Emerson is extracted from the discourse, 
delivered at his funeral by Rev. Joseph S. Buckniinslcr, minister 
of Brattle-street church. 

To the whole are added, agreeably to the original design of the 
author, two sermons ; one preached, on leaving the old house of 
worship in Cornhill ; the other, at the dedication of tlic new 
meeting-house in Chauncy-placc. 

23 Dec. 1811. 
* rublibhcd in an appendix to his sermon on the death of Dr. Channcv. 



INDEX. 



I. From tlie formation of the church, 1650, to the settlement of 

Mr. Cotton, i633. . .... ... 9 

II. Prom the settlement of Mr. Cotton, to his death, 1652. . . 18 

III. From the death of Mr. Cotton, to the settlement of Mr. Nor- 

ton, 1656 87 

IV. From the settlement of Mr. Norton, to his death, 1663. . 91 

V. From the death of Mr. Norton, to that of Mr. Wilson, 166". . 101 

VI. From the death of Mr. Wilson, to the settlement of Messrs. 

Davenport and Allen, 1668 107 

VII. From the settlement of Messrs. Daven])ort and Allen, to the 

death of the former, and the installation of Mr. Oxenbridg-e. 
Including the years 1669, 1670. ..... Ill 

VIII. From the settlement of Mr. Oxcnhridge, to his death, 1674. 125 

IX. From the death of Mr. Oxcnbrldge, to the settlement of 3Ir. 

Wadsworth, 1696 127 

X. From the ordination of Mr. Wadsworth, to that of Mr. Bridge, 

1705 146 

ZI. From the ordination of Mr. Bridge, to the death of Mr. Allen, 

1710 153 

XII. From the death of Mr. Allen, to that of P-Ir. Bridge, 1715. 158 

XIII. From the death of Mr. Bridge, to the settlement of Mr. Chaun- 

cy, 1727. . . • • ■ • -166 

XIV. From the settlement of Mr. Chauncy, to the death of Mr. Fox- 

croft, 1769. ...... 173 

XV. From the death of Mr. Foxcroft, to the settlement of Mr. 

Clarke, 1778 181 

XVI. Sketch of the life and character of Mr. Clarke. . . .215 

XVII. Character of Mr. Emerson. . • ... 223 

Mr. Emerson's last Sermon in the Old Brick meeting-house, 17 
July, 1808. ...... 229 

Mv. Emerson's Sermon at the dedication of the new house of 
worship, in Chauncy-place, 21 Jul)', ISOS. - . , 245 



HISTORICAL SKETCH 



FIRST CHURCH, 



SECTION I. 

From the formation of l!ie Church, 1630, to the settlement of 
Mr. Cotton, 1633. 

The four men particularly eminent and active in sect, l 
laying the foundation of the First Church in 1530 
Boston were John Winthrop, Isaac Johnson, 
Thomas Dudley, and John Wilson. 

The first of these illustrious characters was the 
first governour of Massachusetts. 

The second was a gentleman of family and 
fortune, who, with his honourable lady, was swept 
away by the ravages of a mortal disease in the 
infancy of the settlement. 

Mr. Dudley was a long time deputy-governour, 
and afterwards governour of the colony. 

Mr. Wilson was a minister of religion, abound 
ing in zeal, prudence, and charity. 



10 WILSON. 

SECT. 1. Such were the leaders in the honourable enter- 
1630. P'ise of founding a religious colony. With others 
of similar religious and political opinions, they 
had f<jr some time belonged to an association in 
London, called " The governour and company of 
Massachusetts Bay." On leaving England, they 
brought with them the patent, or charter, of the 
plantation. The members of this company were 
distinguished, among the settlers of the American 
wilderness, for piety, wealth, talents, and liberality. 
In principle indeed they were puritans ; but they 
never seceded from the episcopal church, until 
they left their country. 

The Arabella, the vessel, in which they crossed 
the Atiantick, anchored in Massachusetts Bay, on 
the 17 June, 1630. After exploring My stick 
river, they came ashore at Charlestown, on the 
first of July, with a view to a permanent resi- 
dence. 

yjiily. 8 July, a thanksgiving was observed in the 

several plantations, and on the 23 August, the 
first court of assistants was holden on board the 
Arabella. 

The first question agitated was. How shall the 
ministers be maintained ? It was agreed, that Mr. 
Phillips, minister of the Watertown plantation, 
should have 30/. a year, and Mr. Wilson 20/., 
until his wife, whom he had left in England, 
should come over, when he was to have the 
same. Sir R. Saltonstall undertook to see, that 
the agreement should be fulfilled in regard to 



17 June. 



Aus 



WILSON. I ! 

Mr. Phillips, and governour Winthrop assumed sect. i. 
the same care for the salary of Mr. Wilson. 1630. 

As soon, as a few civil arrangements had been 
made, it was determined, that a church should be 
regularly imbodied. 

On the 27 August therefore a fast was ap- 27 Au^-. 
pointed, a covenant formed and subscribed, Mr. 
Wilson was chosen teacher, Mr. Nowell an elder, 
and Mr. Gager and Mr. Aspin wall deacons. These 
gentlemen w ere severally confirmed in office ])y the 
imposition of hands and by prayer. It was how- 
ever universally understood, that the ceremony, 
as it respected Mr. Wilson, did not imply a re- 
nunciation of the ministry, which he received in 
England. 

The following is the form of covenant, which 
was subscribed by the members. 

" In the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, and 
in obedience to his holy will and divine ordinance, 

" We, whose names are here underwritten, 
being by his most wise and good providence 
brought together into this part of America, in 
the Bav of Massachusetts, and desirous to unite 
into one congregation or church, under the Lord 
Jesus Christ, our head, in such sort, as becometh 
all those, whom he hath redeemed, and sanctified 
to himself, do hereby solemnly and religiously, as 
in his most holy presence, promise and bind our- 
selves to walk in all our ways according to the 
rule of the gospel, and in all sincere conformity 
to his holy ordinances, and in mutual love and 



i 2 M ILSOX. 

SECT I. respect to each other so near, as God shall give 

^i-^ ■ 

I63U. US i^racc." 

Probably sixty-four men and half as many 
women immediately signed this religious obli- 
gation. 

The first meeting-place of the congregation 
was in the umbrage of a large tree. Whether 
they had better accommodations, during their con- 
tinuance at Charlestown, and of how many weeks 
or months exactly that continuance was, it is per- 
haps impossible to say. It is certain, that the 
settlers had scarcely rested, before they perceiv^- 
ed, that the south side of the Charles was pref- 
erable to the north, both for commerce and situ- 
1631. ation. Of course they began to remove to the 
peninsula. At first those, who had thus removed, 
went back to worship at Charlestown on the 
Lord's days. In a little time, publick worship 
was celebrated alternately on each side of the 
river. At length the First Church took its station 
altogether in Trimontane, which was soon called 
Boston, after a place of the same name in Lin- 
colnshire, England, where some of the emigrants 
were born, and v^ hence they expected Mr. Cotton, 
a congregational minister of superlative worth. 

Early in 1631, Mr. Wilson made a visit to 
England. On the morning of the 29 March,he had 
an affectionate meeting, at the governour's, with 
a number of the brethren, where he commended 
them in prayer to God, and exhorted them to 
steadfastness in faith, purity, and brotherly love^ 
He recommended to them the strict observance 



WILSON. 13 

of religious rites, during his absence ; and, as skct. i. 
governour Winthrop, dcputy-governour Dud- i63i. 
ley, and elder Nowell, in his opinion, were best 
qualified to lead the dGvotions and supply the in- 
structions of the congregation, so he in a manner 
consecrated them to the temporary execution ot 
pastoral duties. He sailed from Salem, 1 April, 
and arrived in London, the 29th of the same 
month. But his place was soon after supplied 
by Rev. Mr. Eliot. 

Akhousrh the founders of Massachusetts and of 
our church forsook their native country with the 
express design of enjoying perfect liberty of con- 
science ; and, although doubtless it was the orig- 
inal intention to preserve ecclesiastical affairs dis- 
tinct from those of the state, yet these interests 
became immediately blended. 

The church at Salem had called Mr. Roger 
Williams to the office of teacher. It had been 
said of this man, that he refused communion with 
the church in Boston, because its members would 
not make a publick declaration of their repentance 
for having continued their connexion with the 
episcopal church, whilst they remained in Eng- 
land. He had also taught, that the magistrate 
ought not to punish breaches of the sabbath, nor 
any offence against those laws of God, which re- 
late solely to his worship. Alarmed at this de- 
gree of liberality, the magistrates immediately 
signified to Mr. Endicott their dissatisfaction with 
the proceedings of the Salem church ; and even 
fiotified to Mr. Williams himself their pleasure. 



i4 WILSON. 

SECT. I. that he would not suffer the union to be consum- 



1631. mated, until their permission should be known. 

In the exercise of the same power, derived 
partly from their civil capacity, and partly from 
their standing in the church, the governour, 
deputy-governour, and elder went to Water- 
town to inquire into an opinion maintained in 
that church, that the church of Rome was right. 
After the matter was debated before numbers of 
both congregations, the opinion of the Watertown 
elder, whose name was Brown, with the general 
approbation, was condemned as erroneous. 

The difficulty did not here terminate. Elder 
Brown persisted in his errour. The Court was 
applied to, interfered, and wrote to the First 
Church to consider the propriety of his continu- 
ance in office. The Church answered, that if 
the Court would prove the allegations, she would 
silence the offender. At length. Messieurs Win- 
throp, Dudley, and Nowell repaired to Water- 
town, where the congregation was divided on the 
subject in question. The governour said, " We 
have come to you, as peacemakers. You may 
choose, whether we shall enter upon the investiga- 
tion of the controversy in the character of magis- 
trates, as members of a neighbouring congrega- 
tion, or as referees, not satisfied with the notice, 
you have taken of our previous advice." Mr. 
Phillips, the pastor, desired them to act as mem- 
bers of a neighbouring congregation only. On 
this condition a hearing was had, in which both 



WILSON. 15 

parties complained, relented, and promised the sixt.i 
adoption of conciliatory measures. i63z~ 

The affairs of the church as well, as of the 26 Mav. 
plantation, were prosperous ; though occasions 
ivere not wanting of debate among individuals and 
in the community. Instances of political inter- 
ferences with ecclesiastical concerns were often 
taking place. No church could be gathered 
without permission from the magistrates ; and 
none could be a magistrate, nor even vote for a 
magistrate, unless he was member of a church 
thus politically gathered. In this politico-reli- 
gious condition, questions would frequently arise 
respecting the nature, qualifications, and power of 
various offices. They were at a loss, for exam- 
ple, whether the same person, at the same time, 
might be a civil magistrate and a ruling elder. If 
not, which should he lay down, what should be 
done ? Might there be divers pastors in the 
same church ? These questions the church pro- 
posed to the consideration of her sister churches 
in Plymouth and in Salem. 

The first question was answered unanimously 
in the negative ; and thenceforth Mr. Nowell re- 
linquished his office in the church, and devoted 
himself entirely to the duties of a civilian. 

The second received a doubtful answer ; be- 
cause the answer to the first involved an experi- 
ment, the results of which were not known. 

To the third was given the same kind of reply ; 
because the respondents did not wish to deprive 
the church of any means of improvement she 



1,6 WILSON. 

SECT. I. could fairly ciijoy ; and, at the same time, they 
1632. were not ignorant of the rivalry and feuds, whicK 
are the natural, though not unavoidable, conse- 
quence of placing two or more persons with equal 
powers in the same office. 

On the return of Mr. Wilson from London, 
which was on the 26 May, 1632, the congregation 
began to build a house for publick worship, and 
another for the pastor. Towards these purposes 
they made a voluntary contribution of 120/. 
They erected the church on the south side of 
State- Street, not far from the spot, on which the 
Exchange has been newly reared. Its roof was 
thatched, and its walls were of mud. 

As the season grew late, and the weather se- 
vere, those members of the congregation, who 
belonged to Charlestown, found it troublesome to 
worship in Boston. Accordingly they signified 
their desire to constitute a new society on the 
north side of the river. The 11 October was 
set apart for seeking direction of God ; and, on 
the 14th, thirty-three persons were peaceably 
dismissed from their relation to the church. The)' 
then elected Mr. James their teacher, and formed 
what is now the congregational church in Charles- 
town.* 

The congregation now fixed their eyes, for a 
teacher, on Mr. John Kliot, who had arrived the 

* " And now upon this separation I find t!ic number of males in 
the church of Boston (after nigh two years continuance hei-e, in 
which time doubtless additions were made to it,) amounted but to 
about 70 or 80, the body of the inluibitants." [Foxcroft's Cent 
Serm.] 



WILSON. ir 



preceding year, and luid officiated, for the most sect. i. 
part, during Mr. Wilson's absence, and who af- 1639. 
terwards immortalized his name by his apostle- 
ship among the Indians. But he had already de- 
termi?;ed on a settlement at Roxbury, and would 
not be persuaded to alter his resolution. 

The 22 November was solemnized, as a fast, 
on which Mr. Wilson, hitherto the teacher, was 
ordained the pastor of the church. At the same 
time were elected Mr. Oliver a ruling elder, and 
two deacons, on all of whom hands were imposed, 
as a sign of consecration. 

One hundred and thirty men, and nine- less. 
ty women had now become members of the 6 Aug-, 
church. But, besides the loss of the Charles- 
town members, several had died, several others 
had removed to S.ilem, and a few had returned to 
England. Probably the church did not now 
number more, than a hundred communicants. 
Four children were baptized in the first year, 
eleven in the second, three in the third, and four 
in that part of the fourth, which elapsed before 
Mr. Cotton's ordination. Of these twenty- two 
there were eleven of each sex. 



SECTION 11. 

From the settlement of Mr. Cotton, 1634, to his death, 1652. 

SECT. II. On 4 September, 1633, arrived from Eng- 
^^ land, with Mr. Hooker, and many other emi- 

4 Sept. g^^i"'ts of distinction, Rev. John Cotton. His ce- 
lebrity, which was great in England, had already 
filled the American settlements, and prepared him 
a most welcome reception. His abilities were 
considered, as common property ; and it was the 
immediate concern of the wise and good, where 
he should fix his residence, and how obtain an 
honourable support. 

The scene of his and his wife's admission into 
the church was such, as displayed the precision 
and sanctity of his character, and interested the 
feelings of every beholder. Mrs. Cotton, on 
their passage, had brought him a son, whom he 
called Seaborn, but whom he did not baptize, un- 
til he was admitted into the church at Boston. 
He assigned two reasons for the omission. One 
was, there was no settled congregation on board 
the ship. Secondly, he said, a minister has no 
power to administer the seals of the covenant, ex- 
cept in his own congregation. " He desired, his 



WILSOX. COTTON. 19 

wife might also be admitted a member, and gave a gp^.^ ^j 
modest testimony of her ; but withal requested, she 
might not be put to make open confession, which, 
he said, was against the apostle's rule, and not fit 
for women's modesty ; but that the elders might 
examine her in private. So she was asked, if she 
did consent in the confession of faith made by 
her husband, and if she did desire to be admitted ; 
whereto she answered affirmatively, and so both 
were admitted, and their child baptized, the fath- 
er presenting it ; the child's baptism being, as he 
did then affirm in another case, the father's in- 
struction for the help of his faith."* 

It was first proposed, that Mr. Cotton should 
be maintained from the treasury, in consideration 
of the political as well, as ecclesiastical benefits, 
which were expected from his ministry ; but 
the maturer judgment of a majority of the coun- 
cil quashed the proposal. He might have select- 
ed any situation in the country ; and he was in 
fact urged to accept several invitations, other than 
what he received in Boston. But he was some- 
what compelled by the advice of the governour 
and council as well, as the unanimous voice of 
the First Church, here to bestow his principal la« 
bours. Accordingly a fast was observed, on 
17 October, when " he was solemnly ordained 
teacher of that church, by the imposition of the 
hands of the presbytery, as was Mr. Leverett, an 
ancient professor of religion of Mr. Cotton's con- 

* Winthrop. 



-0 WII.SOX. COTIOX. 

SECT. II. gregation in England, cdained ruling elder ol 
^(533 the same church, the congregation testifying their 
consent by lifting up their hands. Mr. Wilson, 
pastor of the same church, demanded of him, if 
he accepted of that call. He paused, and then 
spake to this effect, that however he knew himself 
unworthy and insufficient for that place, yet hav- 
ing observed the passages of God's providence, 
which he reckoned up in part, in calling him to 
it, he could not but accept of it. Then the pas- 
tor and the two ruling elders laying their hands 
upon his head, the pastor prayed, and speaking to 
him by his name, did thereby design him to said 
office in the name of the holy ghost, and did give 
him the charge of the congregation, and did 
thereb}', as a sign from God, endue him, at least 
prayed, that he might be endued, with gifts fit for 
his office, and largely did bless him. Then the 
neighbour ministers, that were present, did, at 
the pastor's m.otion, give him the right hand of 
fellowship, and the pastor did make a stipulutioa 
between him and the congregation." 

In answering the invitation of the church, Mr. 
Cotton recommended to their care a few friends, 
who belonged to his society in England, and who 
had followed him to this coui.try. They were of 
course provided for. 

The ministers in the neighbourhood, having 
become sufficiently numerous, formed an associa- 
tion, and met, once a foitnight, in rotation, atone 
another's houses. At each meeting some subject 
of moment was debated. Mr. Skelton and Mr. 



WILSON. COTTON. 2 1 

Williams, of Salem, were offended at the rise of sect.ii 
this institution, and predieted, that it would origi- ^^33 
nate a presbytery, or superintendency, that 
would end in the ruin of the church's liber- 
ties. Mr. Hubbard, in his ms. indulges a 
bitterness of invective against these gentlemen, 
which the expression of their fears can hardly jus- 
tify. The event however has proved, that their 
suspicions were groundless. What they con- 
demned was the origin of the Boston Association 
of congregational ministers, who continue, every 
second monday, in the afternoon, to hold a meet- 
ing for prayer, theological discussion, and social 
intercourse. Yet perhaps there is not a place in 
the world, where the independence of individual 
churches is more perfectly enjoyed, than in this 
metropolis, and its vicinity. 

Immediately upon his induction, Mr. Cotton 
entered upon the duties of his office ; and so 
great was his influence both in ecclesiastical and 
civil affairs, that the measures, he recommended 
in his sermons, were forthwith adopted in the 
church ; and his private political counsels were 
with equal readiness enforced by the government. 
The congregation received continual accessions ; 
and more were here added to the number of 
communicants, than in all the other churches of 
the country. Many, who had been notoriously 
immoral, came and confessed their sins, and were 
received into the bosom of the church. Mr. 
Wilson was equally zealous and successful in 
maintaining the discipline of the church. The 



22 WILSON. COTTON. 

SECT. IT. elders, deacons, and several private brethren 
jg.^ were faithful coadjutors in the work of general 
edification ; so that no religious community ever 
appeared in a more prosperous condition. 

There was no subject, which Mr. Cotton did 
not discuss ; and whatever doctrine or sentiment 
he delivered, he maintained by the word of God. 
He showed from the scriptures, that the ministry 
ought to be maintained from a publick chest, 
which was to be supplied by a weekly contribu- 
tion. Mr. Cotton had expended towards his 
own settlement 80/. a reimbursement of which 
he refused. 60/. were contributed for the finish- 
ing of his house, and 100/. for his and Mr. Wil- 
son's support. 

The earliest notice of the 5th day or thursday 
lecture is given in Winthrop's journal for this 
year, when it seems to have been already estab- 
lished. 

There was now some contention in the church 
of Charlestown ; and, among other sources of 
strife between Mr. James the pastor and Mr. 
Nowell the elder, it was questioned by the latter, 
whether they were in fact separated from the 
First Church. 

The rules and discipline of the church were so 
rigidly observed, that a person coming from a 
neighbouring church, in which he was here well 
known to enjoy a fair character and a regular 
standing, could not be received, without renewing 
the profession of his faith in the language of his 
confessors. 



WILSON. COTTON. 3.3 

Mr. Cotton taught, that a magistrate ought not sect. ii. 
to be deprived of his official character without j^^j^ 
just cause, and that for no cause should he be 
arraigned, as a publick convict. 

Mr. Wilson, this year, it seems, made another 
visit to his native country. 

On every occasion, where a matter was dispu- 
ted, Mr. Cotton settled the difference by his pub- 
lick preaching. Mr. Hooker and liis friends were 
about to remove to the Connecticut. Their de- 
sign was strenuously seconded by some and op- 
posed by others. After the matter hud been for 
some time debated, Mr. Cotton ended the affair 
by preaching from Hug. ii. 4. showing the 
strength of the magistracy, ministry, and people. 
In their authority consisted the strength of the 
first, in their purity that of the second, and in 
their liberty that of the last. Each estate, he 
said, had a negative voice, and yet the ultimate 
power should reside in the whole body of the 
people. 

The thursday lecture was now suspended, 4 October 
every other week, to give place to another lecture 
at Cambridge, on the alternate thursday. 

Mr. Eliot blamed the magistrates for over- 
reaching the Pequods in a peace made with them. 
Mr. Cotton was appointed to deal widi him, and 
desire him to make a publick recantation ; which 
he did. 

The thursday lecture reverted to its ancient ii Dec 
order. It was customary for the inhabitants oc- 
casionally to transact business relative to the po- 



^4 WILSON. COTTON. 

SK(jT. II. lice of the town, immediately after lecture. On 
2634 11 December, this year, they chose seven 
new selectmen, to the exclusion of very worthy 
gentlemen, who had served them in preceding 
years. But Mr. Cotton interposed and showed 
from scripture, that it was an order of heaven to 
have all such business committed to the elders. 
Such was the weight of his authority, that he 
caused, on the succeeding thursday, a new elec- 
-^,. tion. 

13 Jan '^"^^^ church, this day, kept a fast on account of 
the pastor's absence in England, and the proba- 
bility there was, that he and his companions 
Avould be detained and troubled. 
19. 1 an. There was, on 19 January, a general meet- 
ing of the ministers, by the request of the gover- 
nour and assistants, to deliberate on these two 
questions. First. What ought to be done, if a 
general governour should be sent out of Eng- 
land ? Second. Is it lawful to carry the cross 
in our banners ? In the first case they were 
agreed, that they ought not to accept him ; but 
to defend their possession in the best manner they 
were able. On the second they divided, and 
came to no decision. 
15 March. About this time, a disturbance happened at 
Lynn. The pastor had been somewhat arbitrary ; 
and some of the members, from a spirit of re- 
sentment, questioned, if they were a true church, 
and commenced a separation. The pastor and 
his adherents requested the advice of sister 
churches. Meanwhile, the pastor desired the 



1 Nov. 



WILSOJf. COTTON. 23 

authors of the schism to commit their grievances S'^.ct. it. 
to writini^. They refused. He therefore was i635 
for excommunicating them ; and wrote to the 
churches to desist from their intended visit. The 
letter was read immediately after thursday lec- 
ture, when it seemed to be the general opinion, 
that the churches ought to hear both sides of the 
dispute. Accordingly they went upon the ground ; 
heard the parties ; acknowledged them a true 
church ; and reconciled the members. 

Rev. Mr. Wilson arrived here from England esept. 
in company ^vith Mr. Shepard, Mr. Jones, and 
others. It was probably now, that his wife ac- 
companied him. The voyage, which Mr. W. 
now finished, wlis remarkable. He more than 
once narrowly escaped shipwreck. On his re- 
turn from England, he was forced by foul \vea- 
ther upon the coast of Ireland, and, after many 
dangers, he visited the country. He met many 
persons interested in the settlement of Newengland. 
From Ireland he passed into Scotland, and into 
the north of England, and, through his whole 
tour, he met whh persons of quality, who were 
concerned for the prosperity of Newengland, and 
who esteemed his visit among them a smile of 
Providence. 

In December, 1635, Mr. Norton arrived at 
Plymouth. 

The ministers occasionally interposed, in case 
of differences among nicigistratcs ; yet rarely or 
never, unless expressly requested by the gover- 
nour and assistants. 

D 



26 WILSON. COTTON. 

SECT. II. In the month of January, 1636, the church at 
1536_ Cambridge was gathered by Mr. Shepard M'ith 
.Ian. great solemnity. It was there questioned, how 
many persons might constitute a church. The 
number three was thought too small ; but it was 
determined, that seven might lawfully constitute 
a church. Mr. Cotton was present, and gave the 
right hand of fellowship to the newly organized 
church. 
25 Feb. The churches of Lynn and Salem were much 
divided. Corn was scarce ; and removals fre- 
quent. A general fast was proclaimed. This 
church in particular observed it with great devo- 
tion. 
April. The principal part of the old church at Dor- 
chester having removed, Mr. Mather and others 
began a new one. Several persons attempting to 
join them were rejected for the present, on the 
idea, that they hated sin, not so much because it 
was in itself odious to God, as because it was 
hurtful to themselves. 

It having been made manifest from the scrip- 
tures, that a certain number of magistrates should 
hold their offices during life, Mr. Winthrop and 
Mr. Dudley were accordingly chosen upon ihat 
principle. 

The peculiarities of Mr. Williams were still a 
source of inquietude among the churches. The 
colonists were frequently returning, for the pur- 
pose of commerce or friendship, to the parent 
country. When there, it was natural for them 
to worship at the churches of their friends. Yet 



WILSON. COTTON. 27 

such was the abhorrence, which Mr. W. entertain- ^e<"t. n. 
ed for episcopal worship, and such was the rig- i636. 
our of his discipUne, that he would suffer none 
of his congregation to give a moment's counte- 
nance to the cause of conformity ; and on such, 
as had offended, he was sure to impose some sort 
of penalty. It was agitated in the First Church, 
whether, out of tenderness to the consciences of 
their brethren, persons going hence to England 
should refrain from joining in episcopal worship. 
It was said, that hearing was not holding com- 
munion, and therefore determined in the nega- 
tive. The next plan was to make them a church 
by themselves. This was opposed, both because 
thev were too few to make a church, and because 
the forming of new chnrches, on such grounds, 
could not be justified by the word of God. It 
was, lastly, asked, if they should be excommuni- 
cated. This measure was unpleasant, and not to 
be resorted to, unless they should withdraw them- 
selves, and behave disorderly. A continuance 
with the church was to procure a degree of tolera- 
tion in matters of opinion. This is the first ray 
of liberality, that has shed itself upon the ecclesi- 
astical institutions of our country. 

Mr. Peters preached at First Church, and so- 
licited of the congregation, among other things, 
these two ; first, that they would relinquish the 
labours of Mr. Cotton, whilst he should go 
through the scriptures, and raise marginal notes 
on the difficult passages. The second wasj that a 



28 WILSOX. COITON, 

SECT. n. plan of church government might be drawn up 
1636. accordin£^ to scriptye. 

Until this time, tlic First Church had enjoyed a 
scries of unequalled prosperity. But, towards 
the close of the year 1636, the congregation was 
distracted by one of the most extraordinary theo- 
logical controversies, that ever was agitated. A 
married woman, by the name of Anne Hutchinson, 
had long been infected with antinomian principles. 
The opinions, which she first privately and after- 
wards openly avowed, w-ere such, as these, viz. 
That the person of the Holy Ghost dwells in a jus- 
tified person. That no degrees of sanctification 
furnished any evidence of justification ; and that 
consequently all the genuine sanctification in a 
true believer consisted in a personal union with 
the Holy Ghost. So strenuously did she hold 
and propagate these and similar notions, that she 
bitterly opposed those of the clergy and laity, 
who were for cooling the ebullitions of her en- 
thusiastick zeal. She said, that none of tlic min- 
isters, Mr. Cotton excepted, preached the cove- 
nant of grace ; that they preached the covenant of 
works ; they could not preach the covenant of 
grace, because they had not the seal of the spirit ; 
and that they knew no more of the grace of 
Christ, than the apostles knew before their mas- 
ter's resurrection. 

Mr. Wheelwright, a brother in law of Mrs. 
Hutchinson, and formerly an episcopal clergyman 
in England, openly favoured the doctrine of his 
sisten Od:iers in the church espoused her 



WILSON. COT ION, 29 

cause : nor was Mr. Cotton himselt" free from sect. it. 



suspicion, if he was from blame. 1636 

These opinions were soon noised among the 
neighbouring churches, and arrested the particu- 
lar attention of all the ministers. Whilst the 
general court was sitting, they took an opportu- 
nity of visiting Boston, for the express purpose of 
inquiring into the controversy, and consulting 
with individuals of the legislature, what was to 
be done. For so intimately connected, in that 
day, were the civil and sacred concerns of the 
state, that, if the church was in danger, the magis- 
trates interfered, or, if the state was threatened, 
the ministers of religion durst not be silent. 

Mr. Cotton and Wheelwright joined the con- 
ference, and, by explaining their notions of sancti- 
fication, gave tolerable satisfaction. 

Mr. Wheelwright being the friend and sup- 
porter of Mrs. H. her partisans in the church 
were desirous of having him associated with 
Messrs. Wilson and Cotton. The proposition 
was opposed. It was said, that the church was 
already furnished with able ministers, who were 
known to the brethren, and whose labours had 
been wonderfully blessed, and that it was wrong 
to hazard the peace of the congregation, by intro- 
ducing a stranger, whose sentiments and conduct 
had already begun to kindle the flames of conten- 
tion. Governour Vane questioned the ground of 
opposition, since Mr. Cotton had approved the 
doctrine of the candidate. Mr. Cotton replied, that 
he acknowledged a similarity of opinion, on some 



3© WILSON. COTTON. 

SECT IT of the points in dispute with Mr. W. but since 
1636. he was apt to raise questions of doubtful utility, 
he thought it safest not to have the church proceed 
in his election. Mr. W. was accordingly per- 
mitted to take charge of the church at Mount 
Woll.ston. 

The feelings of the brethren had become high- 
ly irritable. The opposition to Mr. Wheelwright 
had awakened a spirit of animosity. Points of 
doctrine, which had been calmly discussed in the 
pulpit heretofore, could not now be touched, 
without wounding the feelings of some of the 
brethren. The affair was warmly, though with 
christian forbearance, contested between Mr. 
Cotton and governour Winthrop. The latter 
appeared to great advantage. He seemed equally 
cautious of imbibing erroneous doctrine himself, 
and of rashly censuring the errours of others. He 
dealt with his teacher faithfully, yet affectionately ; 
and concluded the interview by requesting Mr. C. 
not to talk of the personality of the Holy Ghost, 
and terms of that nature, which were never used 
in the purest churches, during the three first cen- 
turies, but to confine himself to matters, which 
were better suited to promote the edification of 
individuals and the peace of the brotherhood. 

Sir Henry Vane, the governour, who had arrived 
this year from England, and who had a high rep- 
utation for seriousness, was rather favourably 
inclined to the Hutchinsonian superstition. He 
asserted the indwelling of the Holy Ghost in every 
believer, and such a personal union, as trinitari- 



W1LS6V. COTTON. 31 

ans suppose between the Logos and the man sect. ii. 
Christ Jesus. But Mr. Wilson, the pastor, Mr. ifijs 
Winthrop, and all the more rational part of the 
congregation desired, that, as the person of the 
Holy Ghost could not be found in scripture, but 
was a term of human invention, it might be dis- 
used. 

Though the dispute ought to have been confin- 
ed to the church, yet the court, from motives of 
curiosity, love of power, and religious zeal, insist- 
ed upon entering into its merits. Mr. Vane was 
even jealous of the right, which the churches and 
ministers thought, they possessed, of terminating 
the controversy independently of the magistrates. 
But Mr. Peters, a minister of Salem, sharply re- 
buked the governour and plainly insinuated, that, 
if governours would concern themselves only 
with the things of Caesar, the things of God 
would be more quiet and prosperous. 

The zeal of Mr. Wilson, on this occasion, 
manifested itself in a lamentation over the dark 
and distracted condition of the churches, and im- 
puted to the newly broached opinions the divis- 
ions, they lamented. Mr. W's speech originated 
questions on the doctrine of sanctification. Mr. 
Cotton had, that dav, taught, that evident sanctifi- 
cation was evidence of justification ; that, in cases 
of especial desertion, desires of sanctification were 
actual sanctification, and that the lowest desree of 
gracious sincerity afforded matter of conifort. 
Mr. Cotton and the governour however main- 



WILSON. COTTON. 



SECT. 11. tained, that nothing could compensate the want of 
16,36. '<^ concurrent sight of justification. 

Mr. Cotton and others were offended at Mr. 
Wilson's speech ; and they accordingly went to 
admonish him. But the pastor and his friends 
were unable to perceive, that any rule had been 
violated. On the same terms with the rest of 
the elders, he had been called to the court, where 
it was desired and expected, that every one would 
express his mind with the utmost freedom, both 
for discovering existing danger, and for remedy- 
ing the evil. Mr. Wilson explained ; but ex- 
planation was unavailing. It was insisted on by 
his accusers, that he should answer publickly for 
his indiscretion ; and the governour was forward 
among those, who with bitterness and reproaches 
were arraigning the conduct of this benevolent 
man. Governour Winthrop remarks, " It was 
strange to sec, how the common people were led 
by example to condemn him in that, which, it was 
very probable, divers of them did not understand, 
nor the rule, which he was supposed to have 
broken, and that such, as had known him so long, 
and what good he had done for that church, 
should fiill upon him with such bitterness, for 
justifying himself in a good cause. For he was a 
very holy upright man ; and for faith "and love 
inferiour to none in the country, and most dear 
to all men." The teacher also betrayed the 
weakness of human nature, and too easily joined 
in the censure of his mild associate. But the 
meekness and moderation of the pastor triumph- 



WILSON. COTTON. 33 

ed over tb.c misguided zeal of ihe teacher and the si-xt. ii. 
flock. He ansucicd them in the language of '^^^~^~ 
gentleness, and by the wisdom of his behaviour 
calmed the murmurs of opposition. It was also 
fortunate for Mr. W, that the first time he 
preached, he was exceedingly happy in his sub- 
ject, and in his manner of treating it ; insomuch 
that the governour professed himself satisfied, 
and laboured in Mr. Ws behalf for the satisfaction 
of others. 

This was not the end of the church's conten- 
tion. One heretical opinion paved the way for 
another, and schism succeeded schism. It was 
maintained, that the Holy Ghost dwells in a believ- 
er as much, as he dwells in heaven ; that a man 
is justiiicd, before he believes ; that faith is no 
cause of justification ; that the letter of the 
scripture holds forth nothing, but a covenant of 
works ; that the covenant of grace, which can be 
known only to believers, is the vital principle of 
the scriptures ; that a man may attain to high 
eminence in sanctincation, gifts, and graces, even 
so as to have special communion widi Christ, 
and after all be damned. In short, with the 
persons holding these notions nothing would an- 
swer, but an immediate revelation, assuring of 
divine acceptance. 

Extravagant as the assertion may seem, these 
extravagant notions were received by the mem- 
bers almost universally. The pastor and three or 
four others made the only exception. 



#.i4 WILSOV. COTTOX . 

SECT. It. Thai Mr. Cotton should give his voice in ia 
1636. ^'°'^^' ^^ ^"^^^ heretical opinions, it may be ration- 
ally supposed, was matter of offence to his cleri- 
cal brethren. Determined to make him explicit, 
they stated sixteen articles, on which they entrea- 
ted unequivocal answers. He complied. On 
some of the points he was satisfactory ; on others 
not. His answers induced several replies ; and 
so much engaged were the ministers in opposition 
to the prevalent enduisiasm, that they persuaded 
the general court, at its next session, to have an 
universal suspension of the lectures for three 
weeks. 
1637.; The year 1637 opened with gloomy prospects. 
Though oppressed with difficulties at home, the 
congregation was not insensible to the sorrows of 
their brethren in foreign climes. The churches 
in Germany were in a miserable condition. In 
England lordly bishops were deposing numbers 
of Christ's faithful followers, making havock 
among the puritans, and every where introducing 
the fopperies of papists. The plague was raging 
on the continent of Europe, where thousands 
were threatened both with the sword and famine. 
The depredations of the Indians were frequent in 
the Connecticut settlement, and anew menaced 
the peace of their own territory. These troubles, 
added to their ecclesiastical dissensions, moved 
the appointment of a general fast. 

But the observance of no rites whatever was 
able to abolish the existing differences on points 
of faith. Mr. Cotton, alone of all the clergy, 



WILSON. COTTON. 35 

was on the side of the fanaticks ; and the very sect, ii 
circumstance of his dissenting from his brethren ~^^' 
was sufficient to give the dispute a wider notorie- 
ty and a keener edge. Though the teacher was 
not to be shaken from his creed, nor betrayed 
into rashness, he was far from being easy under 
the weight of so respectable an opposition ; and, 
though superiour to the adoption of unworthy 
means to promote the views of a party, he was 
yet wiUing to seize a favourable occurrence for 
strengthening the cause, which he thought to be 
just. A ship full of passengers was now ready to 
sail for England. It was natural to embrace 
such an occasion for renewing ancient recollecr 
tions, and disburdening the heart of its cares. 
" Tell our transatlantick friends," said Mr. Cot- 
ton, " that all our strife is about magnifying the 
grace of God. Some seek to advance the grace 
of God towards us, and some the grace of God 
within us. The lovers therefore of the doctrines 
of grace will here be sure of a cordial reception." 
Though this message to the unilluminated sa- 
voured of nothing, but the honey of the bee ; yet 
there v/ere others, who felt a sting in the words. 
Mr. Wilson replied. He said, " I know none 
among either the elders or brethren of these 
churches, who do not labour to magnify the 
grace of God in the justification of believers, as 
that doctrine is contained in the holy scriptures j 
nor are there any, to my knowledge, who deny 
the importance and necessity of sanctification." 
The matter of dispute was trivia, and most of the 



36 , WILSON. COTTON. 

SECT. TT. bystanders Averc equally well satisfied with both 
I63jr_ of the divines ; but the effect was unpleasant. 
Such a theological rencounter under such cir- 
cumstances indicated, that a wound had been 
given to the peace of the church, which was not 
easily healed, and which would frequently bleed 
before the eyes of the whole community. Be- 
cause the ministers contended, the people could 
not agree. One party ranged itself on the side of 
justification ; the other on that of sanctification ; 
and the distinction between the advocates for 
free grace and the adherents to works was as 
broad, as what separates protestants and papists. 

The general court, which commenced its ses- 
sion in March, upheld its interest in the contro- 
versy. It had a party in favour of Mr. Cotton 
and the majority of the church ; but the majority 
was on the side of Mr. Wilson and his friends. 
Of course the correctness of the proceeding 
against Mr. Wilson was questioned, and his 
speech in the last court, and the whole tenour of 
his conduct were adjudged not only faultless, but 
reasonable. 

It was in this session voted, that the ministers 
should be requested to give tlieir advice concern- 
ing the authority of the court in ecclesiastical af- 
fairs. The ministers complied with the request, 
and agreed in two things. First, That no legis- 
lator, without leave of the court, should publickly 
be questioned by a church concerning any speech, 
which he may have made, whilst acting in his 
legislative capacity. Secondly, That all such 



WlI.SO>;. COTTON. J7 

heresies and errours of any church member, as sect. ii. 
are manifestly dangerous to the state, the court TTZT" 
may proceed to condemn, without staying for 
the determination of the church ; but opinions, 
turning merely on texts of doubtful interpretation, 
or on questions, about which wise and pious men 
have innocently diftered, shall first be submitted 
to the deliberation of the church. 

Mr. Wheelwright was to be questioned at this 
court concerning a sermon, he hud preached, 
which was said to be seditious. His friends, 
who made the majority of the church, petitioned 
the court, first, that, as freemen, they might be 
present in cases of judicature ; and, secondly, 
that they would define and publish their power in 
casuistical and ecclesiastical cases. This petition 
was ungraciously received, and immediately re- 
jected. The court said, that they were in the 
liabit of determining causes in publick ; but they 
should insist on the right of private deliberation, 
whenever they thought proper. 

The cause was at length agitated. It appeared, 
that against all, who walked in a covenant of 
works, maintaining, that simctification was an ev- 
idence of justification, Mr. Wheelwright in his 
sermon had bitterly inveighed. Such persons 
he denounced as antichristians, and excited 
against them a vehement opposition. He was 
summoned before the court. His sermon was 
produced, which he justified without the least 
palliation, confessing, that he still meant all, which 
he seemed to express. The elders of the other 



58 WILSON. COTTON. 

SECT IT churches, on being questioned, unanimously ack- 
163/. novvledged, that they felt themselves pointed at 
and maligned in the aforesaid discourse. After 
some debate, he was adjudged guilty of sedition 
and contempt of the court. His conduct was 
thought to be marked by peculiar aggravations of 
guilt. A fast had been appointed, as the means of 
healing breaches in the peace of the church, 
which his sermon seemed designed and calculated 
to widen. From this judgment the governour 
and a few others dissented, and entered their pro- 
test ; which however was not admitted, because it 
exculpated Mr. Wilson, and in this instance dis- 
approved the doings of the court. First Church 
also offered a petition in behalf of Mr. Wheel- 
wright, which justified his vsermon. The court 
deferred sentence, until thenext session, and took 
advice of the ministers concerning the propriety 
of enforcing his sentence. They were diffident in 
their opinions on the subject, and recommended 
him to the care of First Church. This was 
done, and his appearance enjoined at the next 
court. 

These differences gave motion to the pens as 
well, as spirit of controversy. Among other 
tracts, the magistrates issued an apology, justify- 
ing the sentence of the court against Mr. Wheel- 
wright. Against this sentence , the majority of 
the church had said many hard things. They 
had also remonstrated in a loud and angry tone, 
and been guilty of unfairness. In abbreviating 
Mr, Wheelwright's sermon, they actually altered 



WILSON. COTTOX. B9 

both the words and meaning of offensive pas- skct. n. 
sabres. Mr. W. himself too published a treatise, 71 

o r ' l6,>~. 

relative to the dispute, which also spoke a differ- 
ent language from that of the sermon. The ser- 
mon was answered, and its doctrine refuted, by 
the clergy. This answer dre^v another from 
Mr. Cotton, who narrowed the ground of contro- 
versy ; and in the election sermon, preached, 
the next day by Mr. Shepard, the differences 
w^ere so concisely stated, that the affair was 
brought almost to a close. Indeed so much had 
been written and said on the subject, so much had 
been controverted, and so much conceded, that 
polemick divines of the first perspicacity could 
alone determine with accuracy, where the point of 
contention was ; and, if the passions of the com- 
munity had not been highly excited, the dispute 
would have seen an earlier termination. The re- 
ligious combatants were at length agreed in the 
following particulars. First, that justification and 
sanctification were together in time. Secondly, 
that a man must know himself justified, before 
he can know himself sanctified. Thirdly, that 
the spirit of God never witnesses to the realii) of 
justification, vviihout a previous conviction of a 
wonderful work \\Tought upon the soul. The 
dift'erence between the controversialists came final- 
ly to this. One party affirmed, that the firat as- 
surance of a justified state originated in an abso- 
lute promise, and not in a conditional one also. 
The other maintained, that christian assurance 
arose from a promise partly abBokite and partly 



40 wiLbo:;. corroN. 

SiiCT. II. conditional. The former held, that no man 



1637. couid have any true assurance, without such a 
sense of" a good work having been wrought up- 
on his soul, as no hypocrite could attain. The 
latter contended, that the only sure evidence of 
continuing in a justified state was a continuance 
in a state of holiness. 

Mr. Wheelwright, as commanded, appeared at 
court. Because however a day of general hu- 
miliation was appointed, on which all the church- 
es were to choose referees, for settling the differ- 
ences, a respite was granted him by the court, un- 
til its next session. If, at that period, he should 
retract his errour, he v/as given to understand, 
that he would probably experience a lenity, which 
otherwise might not be expected. He answered, 
If I have been guilty of sedition, let me die. 
Recantation is out of the question. If you pro- 
ceed thus unrighteously against me, I shall appeal 
to the tribunal of my king. The court told him, 
that they were satisfied of the rectitude of their 
course, and that, on a revision of his case, their 
decision would be exactly, what it had been ; but 
if to the meditated conference among the ministers 
the Lord should afford new light, they would 
cheerfully use it in ordaining a new sentence. 

The design of the magistrates in thus deferring 
the execution of the sentence was to give ample 
testimony of their uprightness. The friends of 
Wheelwright had been so censorious and insolent 
in their speeches in court, and so outrageous in 
their conduct abroad, as to injure their cause. 



VVILSOX. COTTON. 41 

I'he moderate party was daily waxing stronger sect. ii. 



both in numbers and influence, and were now J637. 
able to crush the fanatick and his adherents. 
But they were willing to make the equity of theii 
measures palpable to the world, by cultivating a 
temper of moderation, and still extending the 
conciliatory hand. 

A proof of the pious dispositions of the patri- 
archs of Newengland is found in many of their in- 
stitutions, and particularly in their observance of 
fasts and thanksgivings. On experiencing any 
publick calamity, a day of humiliation was imme- 
diately ordained, and a day of thanksgiving, when 
Providence had blessed them with remarkable fa- 
vours. A*victory had recently been gained over 
the Pequod Indians, and, on that account, the 15 
June, 1637, was appropriated by all the churches 
to the exercise of publick thanksgiving. 

The friends of order, now making a large ma- 
jority, were resolved, that their opposers should 
feel their power ; and frequent opportunities oc- 
curred, in which love of truth and the publick 
quiet were put in opposite scales. Through the 
influence of the dominant party, a man, named 
Greensmith, was censured by the general court 
for saying, that all the ministers, excepting two, 
were principled in a covenant of works. This 
had been said and punished before. The man 
appealed to the king ; but he was nevertheless 
committed. 

The wound nowever, which fanaticism had 
received, was by no means mortal. It was con- 



42 WILSON. COTTON. 

SECT, IT. stantly receiving balm and consolation from the 
" parent coimtry. A brother of Mrs. Hutchinson 

and other friends of Mr. Wheelwright, recently 
arrived, immediately rallied round the antinomian 
standard ; and though the administration would 
allow them neither trust nor countenance, yet 
they had a large portion of zeal, and of course 
could not but have a portion of influence. They 
were continually preaching the peculiarities of 
their sect, which imbittered, poisoned, and in- 
flamed the popular mind. Such were the effects 
of their doctrines upon the timid and credulous, 
that some became intoxicated with the joys of as- 
surance, some deranged, and others were driven 
to despair. One woman, in particular, of the 
congregation, having been long worried with ter- 
rours concerning her spiritual state, grew at length 
so furious, that she threw her child into the well, 
saying, '* now my damnation is inevitable." 

This unhappy state of religious affairs was 
viewed with concern by serious and enlightened 
christians, who carefully seized upon every fa- 
vourable opportunity for soothing the passions of 
the populace, and giving a right direction to their 
zeal. Rev. John Davenport, who, in the course 
of the past month, had come hither, like many of 
his profession, for the enjoyment of religious liber- 
ty, was laudably instrumental in furthering the 
work of peace. He preached the thursday lec- 
ture from Cor. i. and in his sermon held a strong 
17 Tiiiv light over the nature and dangers of those divisions, 
which had sprung up in the church, and most 



WILSON. COTTON. 4?> 

tenderly pressed upon his hearers the duties of sect. n. 
candour, forbearance, and brotherly love. 163;^. 

Exhortations of this complexion were not with- 
out their effect. Private meetings of ministers 
and the brethren were had for the removal of 
misunderstandings. A day of humiliation was 
observed in all the churches with especial refe- 
rence to their distracted condition, on 24 July, 
and on the 30th of the same month, a conference 
of ministers and elders was holden, in the hope of 
effectuating pacifick measures. Here Messrs, 
Wilson, Cotton, and Wheelwright were presents 
The speech, made by the first of these gentlemen 
before the court, which at first was so ill receiv- 
ed, and which had been the subject of much sub- 
sequent altercation, was now reviewed in moments 
of greater tranquillity . The passions were asleep, 
and the explanations of Mr. Wilson were heard 
with candour. He declared to his reverend com- 
panion, that, at the time of making the speech 
alluded to, it was not his intention to condemn 
doctrines, which they had publickly delivered, 
but such opinions, as had been disseminated in 
private circles, and industriously propagated to 
the injury of serious preachers and upright chris- 
tians. As to the rest of the speech, it was the 
vmanimous opinion of the elders, that it was inof- 
fensive and even justifiable under the circumstan- 
ces, which called it forth. Mr. Cotton had no 
objection to offer against the general sentiment ; 
but gave a conciliatory exposition of the affair on 
the following sunday. This sudden and favour- 



4.4. 'iVlLBOV. COTTON. 

SECT. II. able change in the aspect of the controversy was 
1637. very observable, especially by those, who knevr, 
that Mr. Wilson had formerly made, in sub- 
stance, the very same declaration. The fact was, 
that, in the heat of contention, words and argu- 
ments had been used with gentlemen to no effect, 
because not weighed with care, nor even heard 
with patience. 

MAug. ^'^ 2Q August, began at Cambridge the fa- 
mous synod, called the assembly, at which all 
the pastors, teachers, and elders in the country 
were present, as well those, who had lately arri- 
ved from England, as those, who were immedi- 
ately connected with particular churches. Of 
course Mr. Davenport was a member of the body. 
Mr. Shepard, minister of the church in Cam- 
bridge, introduced the labours of the assembly 
by prayer. The first day was consumed in prep- 
aration and arrangement. Erroneous opinions 
were first laid before the synod, next improper 
expressions, and lastly abuses of the scriptures. 
On the second day. Rev. Peter Bulkley of Con- 
cord, and Rev. I'hos. Hooker were chosen mod- 
erators ; and they continued in office, until the close 
of the sitting. Eighty opinions were condemned, 
some as blasphemous, others as erroneous,andall,as 
unsafe. Almostall the members subscribed the con- 
demnation. AfeWjthoughin sentiment with the ma- 
jority, thought it discreet to withhold their names. 
Sevtiral members of First Church, together 
with others, disliked the idea of so many opinions 
being coudemned. They said, the votes of the 



WILSON. eOTTON. 4;> 

synod brought a reproach upon the country, sect. ii. 
They disbcheved the statement, on which the ^^^yT 
sense of the assembly had been taken, and called 
for the names of persons, to whom these errours 
W'-ere imputed. They were answered, tJiat it 
could be abundantly proved, that all the errours, 
which had been named, had authors and abettors 
in town or in country ; but that prudence dicta- 
ted the concealment of names. The minority 
however were too much warmed with the sub- 
ject to suffer any thing to be secreted. They 
w^ere vociferous for names and witnesses. In 
vain did the moderators call to order, and in vain 
remind them, that, in case of disturbance, the 
magistrate must interpose. It was answered, 
that the magistrate had no province in such an 
assembl}'. One of the moderators retorted, that, 
if immediate silence did not ensue, an opportuni- 
ty would be given for testing the correctness of 
the two opinions. There \vas so much severity 
in this sort of language, that some of the Boston 
members retired, and came no more to the as- 
sembly. 

Five points remained in question between Mr. 
Cotton and Mr. Wheelwright on the one part, 
and the rest of the elders on the other. The 
articles, about which the parties were at issue, 
were imbodied, and the mode and meaning of 
the expressions used were agreed upon by all, 
excepting Mr. Wheelwright. 

The first related to our union with Christ. 
The question was, if the union take place before 



46 WILSON. COTTON. 



1637. 



SECT n ^^^ operation of faith. It was agreed, that there 
■ is a difference between habitual and actual faith, 
and that there is no marriage union with Christ, 
until faith becomes actual or operative. 

The second related to the evidence of justifica- 
tion. It was agreed, that saving sanctification 
was coexistent, concurrent, and coapparent with 
the witness of the Spirit. 

It was agreed, that the new creature is not the 
person of a believer, but a body of saving graces 
within him ; and that Christ, as a head, quickens, 
preserves, and actuates, but is himself no part of, 
the same. 

The fourth respected effectual calling. It was 
agreed, that the soul is enlivened by an operative 
faith, wrought at the time by the Spirit, and that 
justification and sanctification are coeval ; yet 
that God does not justify a man, before he is ef- 
fectually called, or, in other words, before he is a 
believer. 

It was agreed, that Christ and his benefits may 
be offered to a man under, but not m, or by, a 
covenant of works. 

When these questions were first agitated, each 
party delivered its arguments in writing, which 
were read in the assembly, and afterwards their 
answers. This mode of doing business consum- 
ed much time to no good purpose. But as soon, 
as they began to state and define their questions, 
the points in dispute were rendered intelligible, 
and speedily settled. 



WILSON. COTTON. 47 

Having determined questions of right, those of sect, u 
expediency came next to be considered. Ac- lesr. 
cordingly the last day of its sitting, the synod de- 
liberated and resolved on the following questions. 

1. That though a few women may meet togeth- 
er for the purposes of prayer and mutual advice* 
yet such an assemblage of females, consisting of 
sixty or more, as is now every week formed, in 
which one of them, in the character of principal 
and prophetess, undertakes to expound the scrip- 
tures, resolve casuistical cases, and establish doc- 
trines, is determined to be irregular and disor- 
derly. 

2. Though a private member may ask a ques- 
tion publickly after sermon for information, yet 
this ought to be very wisely and sparingly done, 
and never without leave obtained of the elders ; 
but questions on matters of speculation, such 
as are now agitated in many places, in which doc- 
trines are frequently opposed, and those deliver- 
ing them bitterly reproached, is on no account 
justifiable. 

3. A person, refusing to come to attend publick 
worship to receive church censure, may be pro- 
ceeded against, though absent ; yet it is advisable, 
if convenient, that the magistrate should compel 
him to be present. 

4. A member, differing from the rest of the 
church in any opinion not fundamental, ought not 
to absent himself from the celebration of ordinan- 
ces ; and, if a member, thus circumstanced, shall 
desire a dismission to another church, holding 



48 "VVILSON. COITON. 

SKCT. II. opinions agreeable to his own, the churei), to 
1637. which he belongs, ought not to grant his request. 

The assembly dissolved itself ; and the gov- 
crnour proposed, that, since the Lord had been 
graciously present with its members, and its af- 
iairs had been so regularly conducted and amica- 
bly concluded, a like meeting should be had 
once a year, or at least the next year, to settle 
what of controversy still remained doubtful, and 
nourish dispositions of charity. The motion, as 
it displayed the goodness of the goveniour's heart, 
was universally pleasing ; but it was not thought 
prudent to adopt the measure. 

The governour also moved, that, as there was 
a difference in different churches in the manner of 
supporting their ministers, it should be agreed, 
what mode of maintaining them is most evan- 
gelical ; but the ministers feared to decide 
upon this question, lest it should be said, that 
the assembly was gathered for their own ad- 
vantage. 

Mr. Davenport, as he had been previously 
requested by the assembly, preached from Phil, 
iii. 16. In his sermon he enumerated the prin- 
cipal causes of dissensions among christians, and 
stated the beneficial effects of the synod. With 
sound argument and much eloquence he persuad- 
ed to unity his christian brethren, who now sepa- 
rated under auspicious appearances. The mem- 
bers of the assembly were boarded, and those 
belonging to Connecticut were brought and re- 
turned, at the publick charge. 



16J 



WILSON. COTTOX. 49 

However satisfactory might have been the re- sect. i.i. 
suit of the synod to the churches in general, some 
of the members of First Church were so dissatis- 
fied with it, that, because the success of the synod 
was mentioned, as one of the causes of gratitude 
to God, in the autumnal thanksgiving, they ab- 
sented themselves from the religious exercise 
This disrespect to the doings of the assembly 
was contagious. The hopes of peace, 'fondly 
indulged for a time, were found to be illusive. 
Though Mr. Wheelwright and his party had 
been confuted in the assembly, yet they persisted 
in their opinions, and were as busy as ever in 
nourishing the spirit of ecclesiastical contention. 

On 2 November, the general court assem- 
bled at Cambridge. They found,that two so op- 
posite parties could not continue in the same 
body, without putting to hazard the peace, if not 
the existence of the whole. Former disputes 
were renewed with all their former virulence ; and 
the fires of party, which had been seemingly 
quenched, were found only to have been smother- 
ed. Mr. Wheelwright, by persisting in his owii 
justification, rendered abortive all previous exer- 
tions for establishing a reconciliation. He was 
accordingly banished the government. He ap» 
pealed to the king ; but he was told and convin- 
ced, that an appeal of this sort was nugatory. 
He of course relinquished it ; and the court per 
mitted him to go to his own house, upon promis- 
ing, that he would leave the jurisdiction, within 



jO WILSON. COTTOX. 

SECT. ir. fourteen days. The breach of this promise was 
~~^Y to be followed by a surrender of his person to the 
niiigistrate. 

It was thought best to pursue a course of ener- 
getick policy towards bringing the controversy to 
a close ; and to follow up the severity towards 
Mr. W. by a similar treatment of his sister. 
Mrs. Hutchinson was accordingly sent for by 
the court. She was formally accused of the er- 
rours in sentiment and practice, which have al- 
ready been described,* and the charges were 
sustained by a host of witnesses. This trial was 
very extraordinary. Perhaps the ecclesiastical 
annals of no country can furnish a similar instance. 
On her entering the court, she was addressed 
by govcrnour Winthrop in a strain of uncommon 
solemnity. " Mrs. Hutchinson," says he, " you 
are called here,as one of those, who have troubled 
the peace of the commonwealth and of the 
churches. You are known to be a woman, who 
have had a great share in divulging and promo- 
ling those opinions, which cause our present 
troubles, and to be nearly joined not only in affini- 
ty and affection with some, whom the court have 
noticed and censured, but you have spoken di- 
vers things injurious to the honour of these 
churches and their ministers. You have also 
maintained a meeting in your house, which has 
been condemned by the general court, as a thing 
not comely in the sight of God, nor suitable to 
your sex ; and, notwithstanding it was condemn- 

• P. 28, 



WILSON. COTTON. Jrl 

ed in the opinion of all sober and judicious per- sect ii 
sons, you have continued the same. We have jgo^^ 
therefore thought it good to send for you, to un- 
derstand how things are, that, if you are in an er- 
roneous way, we may reduce you, that so you 
may become an exemplary and profitable christian 
among us. Otherwise, if you shall be obstinate 
in your errours, the court will take such a course, 
as to prevent your giving us further trouble. I 
therefore entreat you to say explicitly, whether 
you hold and assent to those opinions and factions, 
which have already been handled in court." 

Whilst the governour was making this speech, 
and during some time of her first appearance be- 
fore the court, she was modest and reserved ; 
but her judges entreated her to be open, and in- 
sisted upon an honest confession of her secret 
sentiments, respecting the merit and manner of 
preaching common among the ministers. She 
still seemed unwilling fully to reveal her mind. 
They began to question her, and she to answer 
them. As much as two days was she before the 
governour and assistants, perplexed and irritated 
by their queries. Sometimes indeed she an- 
swered with too much pertness and pride ; but, 
for the most part, she referred her accusers and 
judges to the scriptures, whose authority they all 
acknowledged, and whose words, it must be con- 
fessed, as urged by the woman, often caused 
them some little confusion. Mr. Cotton was im> 
plicated in the examination, and by the mildness 
of his manner,' and his nice discriminations con. 



52 WILSON. COTTON* 

SECT. II. tributed to increase the embarrassment of the 



j(S57. court. At leng'th it was voted to banish Mrs. H. 
from the jurisdiction, as a woman unfit for their 
society, and to imprison her, until the execution 
of the sentence. 

In reflecting upon the course of behaviour 
pursued in regard to this affair, we can hardly 
help dropping a tear of compassion over the intol- 
erance of the age, and the hardship attending the 
case of this female fanatick. It is true, there was 
plenary evidence, that she possessed an unquiet, 
bold, and turbulent spirit, and was full of enthusi- 
asm ; yet it is oasy to see, that the whole contro- 
versy originated in too strict an adherence to the 
words of the scriptures, without regarding their 
connexion and spirit, and in a strong attachment 
to an unbendmg discipline. 

The errour vv^as not invisible to several mem- 
bers of First Church. Though they too much 
favoured the extravagant fancies of Mrs. H. yet 
it was not solely on that account, that they es- 
poused her cause. They thought, that a spirit of 
unjustifiable persecution had been indulged, and 
they were determined to resent it. Their ill-will 
accordingly manifested itself against the govcr- 
iiour. They were desirous, that the ministers 
should call him before them to answer for the part, 
he had acted in the affair. Advertised of their 
wishes, he exculpated himself to the congregation. 
He told them, that if he were arraigned, he should 
advise with the elders concerning the power of 
the church to interlere in civil concerns. He 



WILSON. COTTON. o.3 

then showed, that he was in the exercise of his sect, n . 
functions, as a civil magistrate ; that in that capac- igsr. 
ity there was no power paramount to his ; and 
that though, as a member of the church of Christ, 
he was, hke other members, subject to its rules, 
yet, as a ruler in one of the kingdoms of thio 
world, he ought to command the obedience of 
christians. " What I have done," says he, " in 
this affair, I have done for the maintenance of 
peace, I can justify by instances in sacred history 
every part of my conduct. If priests have some- 
times laid restraint upon kings, these in turn 
have undertaken the control of priests. If a 
magistrate should be guilty of taking private 
property by theft, he would be amenable to the 
church ; but if, in discharging the duties of his 
office, he should banish from the state a disorderly 
subject, whether or not belonging to the church, 
I should consider him, as acting without the con- 
trol of any ecclesiastick authority. I am also able 
to justify my conduct in this affair by the opinion 
of several of the clergy and other christian breth- 
ren, whose advice I have taken and very carefully 
followed. In short, I have acted in the whole ol 
this business conformably to my oath, which 
obliges me to do whatever I think for the glory of 
God and the common good. It has long been 
manifest to my friends as well, as to myself, that 
these opposite parties would not live together in 
peace, and that the only method of restoring tran- 
quillity to the state was the banishing of the 
greatest offenders." 



54, WILSON. CQTTOX. 

SECT. II. In the month of March, 1638, Mrs. Hutchin- 

jg.g son took up her residence in Roxbury. Here 

she was visited both by the wise and foolish, both 

,March. ^y ^^^^ wellmcaning peacemaker and the queru- 
lous disputant. Some went to her house to dis- 
cover the extent and depth of her errours, some 
to cure, and others to multiply and aggravate 
them. The bruit of her heresy was indeed renew- 
ed with so much ardour, that the magistrates 
found it necessary to summon her before them. 
15 March. She C:^me, and on 15 March, at a publick lec- 
ture, appointed for the purpose, her errours were 
enumerated and condemned. She herself was 
solemnly admonished before the whole congrega- 
tion. Mr. Cotton read the admonition, and une- 
quivocally reproved the proud and contentious 
spirit, which had appeared in a woman, who had 
formerly been among the warmest of his admir- 
ers. The general court was now sitting at 
Cambridge ; but the govcrnour and treasurer,be- 
ing members of First Church, were permitted to 
join the congregation in approving the punish- 
ment. 

On 22 March, Mrs. H. appeared again. In 
the hope of her repentance, she had been libera- 
ted by the court. She had resided, a little while, 
at the house of Mr. Cotton, that he and Mr. Dav- 
enport might have opportunity of fully detecting 
her errours, exposing them to her conscience, and 
inducing a penitent temper. Their exhortations 
were not wholly without effect. She retracted in 
writing most of what were called her JamiiisticaJ 



WILSON. COTTON. 55 

©pinions ; yet with such modifications and restric- sect. ir. 
tions, as rendered her acknowledgment of no val- ^^^s. 
lie in the estimation of the church. They requir- 
ed an oral explanation, which should express 
more clearly a renunciation of her heresies. She 
then declared, that it was Justin God to leave her 
to imbibe and disseminate these wrong opinions, 
for slighting his sacred ordinances and reviling 
the rulers of his people. This confession, which 
was made apparently under the influence of a 
christian temper, and which concluded with a re- 
quest for the prayers of the church in her behalf, 
awakened an expectation, that she might return to 
something like a decorous behaviour. But this 
expectation was baseless, as the fabrick of a vis- 
ion. The moment they came to particular defi- 
nitions, she was as wild and impudent as ever ; and 
so palpable were her contradictions, that she as- 
tonished and alienated those, who had formerly 
been her advocates. The last gleam of hope 
having fled, that she would ever conduct herself, 
as a sober and peaceable member of the church, a 
motion was made for her excommunication. 
Feeling a tenderness for the woman, and some- 
what of horrour at the contemplated measure, some 
were for substituting another admonition ; but 
the vote passed, and Mr. Wilson pronounced the 
sentence. The transaction is recorded in the fol- 
lowing words. " Ann, the v/ife of our brother 
William Hutchinson, having, on the 15th of the 
third month, been openly in publique congrega- 
tion, admonished of sundry errours held by her, 



56 AVILSON. COITON'. 

SECT. II. was, on the same 22d day, cast out of the church 
1^^ for impeniteutly persisting in a manifest lye, then 
expressed by her in open congregation, the 15th 
of the same month, 1638." 

After excommunication, her spirits, which had 
been previously depressed, revived, and she glori- 
ed in her sufferings, thanking God, that she was 
counted worthy to be abused for the sake of 
Christ. But her own joy, on this event, could 
not have exceeded what was felt by the bulk of 
the people. They had so long been agitated by 
this vexatious affair, and such bickerings had it 
caused in families as well, as churches, that the 
prospect of its termination was universally pleas- 
ing. 

Notwithstanding the order of court, Mrs. 
Hutchinson seemed inclined to linger among her 
friends. Accordingly, two or three days after her 
excommunication, the governour sent her a war- 
rant, obliging her to leave the limits of the juris- 
diction, before the close of the month, and to 
abide in her house, until her departure. On the 
28th, she went by water to her farm at Mount 
Wollaston, whence she wiis to sail with Mr. 
Wheelwright's family for Piscataqua. But she 
changed her mind, and journeyed by land to 
Providence, and thence proceeded to an island in 
the Narraganset bay, which her husband and 
others of her sect had purchased of the Indians, 
with the view of commencing a settlement by 
themselves. 



WILSON. COTTON. if 

Althoiigh Mrs. Hutchinson was gone, it was sec r. ii. 



Jong, before the effects of the controversy respect- jg-^ 
ing her ceased. Neighbouring congregations 
could not but be interested in it ; and it had pro- 
duced a strong sensation in the whole vicinit}'. 
Roxbury church, in particular, contained mem- 
bers, who subscribed the obnoxious petition, ^^s"':' 
They were however admonished at first, and, 
because they would not submit to the censures of 
the church, were eventually excommunicated. 

xVlthough it should seem, that the magistrates 
and ministers, united as they were in governing 
the state and church, were terrible and irresistible 
in their sway, yet there were not wanting instan- 
ces, in which their power was defied. Just be- 
fore the expulsion of Mrs. H. and whilst the 
court was sitting, one John Green of Providence 
wrote a letter to the governour and assistants in 
an uncour'cly style. This man had accused the 
court, and probably with reason, of acting in an 
arbitrary manner ; of persecuting Mr. Williams 
and his friends ; and of cruelly restraining them 
from divulging their opinions. This freedom of 
speech had procured him a fine. He had ac- 
knowledged his errour, and his fine had been re- 
mitted. But now he crimhiated his former sub- 
mission, and justified himself in his first act of 
repugnance to what he deemed an intolerant spir- 
it. It was to no purpose to send to Rhodeisland 
for this offender ; but the court ordered, that, if 
he and certain others, believed his confederates', 

iT 



58 WILSON. COTTON. 

SECT. II. bhoiikl be found in this jurisdiction, they should 
15J8 cither confess their fault, or obligate themselves, 
on pain of imprisonment, to be seen no more 
hereafter within the limits of the state. 

At this court also several military officers of 
distinction, who had espoused the fanaticism of 
Mrs. Hutchinson, were sent for and examined. 
They acknowledged, that they had been misled 
by the pretence of exalting Christ and debasing 
the creature. Experience had taught them, that 
they had followed a delusion, the natural tendency 
of which was to promote schism among church- 
es and individual christians. They blessed God, 
that he had showed them their errour, before it 
had become fatal to their peace. 

Thus ended one of the most intricate, vexatious, 
and unhappy disputes, that ever distracted an in- 
fant community. Much blame undoubtedly 
belongs to the antinomian party, by whom it 
originated ; but the magistrates and ministers 
are not wholly to be exculpated. Our ancestors 
had settled this country for the sake of enjoying 
1 he rights of conscience and the liberty of private 
judgment. Yet here was a woman arraigned, 
condemned by the court, expelled from the 
church, and banished the commonwealth for doing 
nothing more, than the exercise of this freedom 
implies. The catastrophe of this deluded and un- 
fortunate woman and her family it is melancholy 
to relate. Her husbiind, being one of the pur- 
chasers of Aquetneck, sold his estate in Massa- 
chusetts, and removed with his family to that isb 



Wn.SON. COTTON 5f 

and. On the death of Mr. H. in 1642, Mrs. ^^^'^- "• 
Hutchinson, dissatisfied with the people or place, '638. 
removed to the Dutch country beyond New Ha- 
ven ; and, the year after, she and all her family, 
consisting of sixteen persons, were killed by the 
Indians, with the exception of one daughter, 
whom they carried into captivity.* Several 
strange stories respecting this woman and her 
companion, Mrs. Dyer, are to be found in Win- 
throp's journal, which at this day arc hardly cred- 
ible. They are of little importance, and hold no 
proper connexion with the merits of the contro- 
versy. 

Although we have reprobated the spirit, with 
which this long dispute was managed, on the part 
of the governour and the majority of the clergy) 
yet perhaps they could hardly have been more 
lenient. On a first view of the affair, we are 
ready to wonder, that the private opinions of a 
woman, and even the parlour lectures, she was 
pleased to hold at her house, should excite so 
strongly the apprehensions of the most learned 
and powerful men in the state. We are ready 
to ask, what harm could have arisen from the sen- 
timents, lectures, and even calumnies of this in- 
fatuated female, so long as she enjoyed no pecu- 
liar political privilege, and could nowise direct 
the power of the magistrate. Yet reflection 
teaches us, that human nature was the same at 
that period, as it is now ; and we know, that those, 

* Holmes's Ann. i. 29S. 



60 ^^ llsox. ^o tion". 

who then held the reins of government in the 
state and church, were wise and good men. Can- 
dour therefore would lead us to conclude, that 
they did what, on the whole, was best to be done, 
and that the peace of the christian community 
could not otherwise have been preserved. 

The temper of these times is visible in the care 
taken by the court to guard against extravagance 
in dress. It was imagined by some of the magis- 
trates, that the women indulged themselves in too 
much expense this way. They accordingly con- 
ferred with the ministers on the subject, and 
charged them to address themselves to the con- 
sciences of their hearers. The ministers promis- 
ed to attend to the matter ; but it was found, that 
their own wives participated in this fault, and 
therefore little was effected in the business. 

Two years since, a Mr. Bernard, of Batcomb, 
Somersetshire, England, transmitted a manuscript 
to the magistrates, and another to the ministers,the 
object of which was to show, that the mode of 
gathering churches in this country was wrong. 
So busily had the clergy been occupied, since 
the arrival of this work, with the hutchinsonian 
dispute and its consequent mischiefs, that none 
had found time to answer it. It was now an- 
swered by Mr. Cotton, who, about this time also, 
replied to another treatise written in defence of 
a form of prayer. 

In Decern !)er, this year, a woman was hanged 
for murdering one of her children. She had been 
a member of the church at Salem, but had been 



WILSOy. COTTON- 6i 

excommunicated for antinomianism ; and she pre- sect. ii. 
tended to justify her crime by internal rcvela- i^3cj7 
tions. 

On the recommendation of the magistrates and 
ministers, a fast was kept to deplore the prevalence 
of the small-pox, the want of zeal in the profes- 
sors of religion, and the general decay of piety. 
Mr. Cotton, in his exercises on that occasion, 
copiously and particularly lamented his own and 
the church's indolence and credulity, whence it 
happened, that the errours, which had required 
immense labour to extirpate, had become so gen- 
erally disseminated. He stated the particular rea- 
sons and manner of his deception, and justified 
the measures, which had been adopted to expa- 
triate the fomentors of ecclesiastical discord. 

The behaviour of the hutchinsonians but too 
well justified the severity, they had experienced- 
At Aquida, whither they had retired, they were 
constantly broaching some diabolical errour. 
Among other foolish notions, they maintained, 
that women had no souls, that moral virtues were 
the antichrist mentioned by the apostle Paul, and 
that the devil and the Holy Ghost had an indwel- 
ling with every believer. 

Those, who went to the falls of Piscataqua,gath- 
ered a church there. They wrote to First Church, 
desiring the dismissal of Mr. Wheelwright, 
whom they were about to employ, as an officer. 
First Church refused to comply with the request, 
because Wheelwright did not himself join in the 



6.2 V;iLSON. COTTOX. 

SECT. II. request. A personal application on his part was 
""[^ afterwards made, which was immediately granted. 
A Mrs. Oliver of Salem, whose temper had 
been soured by sufferings in England for noncon- 
formity, caused the court, about this time, no lit- 
tle uneasiness. The magistrates and churches of 
Massachusetts were also much disturbed by the 
contentions at Providence. The degree of eccle- 
siastical liberty, which Mr. Williams there intro- 
duced, seems to have been greater, than the peo- 
ple were able to bear ; and he had acted on max- 
ims, the consequences of which were not clearly 
foreseen. 

A church, recently formed at Weymouth, 
settled a minister by the name of Leathall, who 
became unpopular at court. It was alleged 
against him, that he innovated upon the order of 
the churches, and, in particular, that he was for 
the general admission of baptized persons to the 
communion, without a particular examination of 
their faith. However salutary this species of re- 
form might be, in certain circumstances, it was 
inexpedient at that age of the Newengland church. 
It brought upon Mr. L. and his church the whole 
weight of the odium theologicum. His measures 
were controlled ; and he was compelled publickly 
to retract his opinions. This was not all. It was 
unsafe to express an opinion, that the christians at 
Weymouth had a right to institute whatever dis- 
cipline they conceived to be agreeable to the 
scriptures. Every man, in short, who attempted 
to act unfettered bv the decrees of the court, and 



WiLSON. COTTOI^. 6 ^ 

tiie judgment of the ministers, found himself cir- sect. ii. 
cumscribed. The punishment of one Britton, in igs? 
particular, is worth recording. He had spoken 
reproachfully of the answer, which was written to 
Mr. Bernard's book, against the mode of consti- 
tuting and governing the American churches, and 
had moreover freely espoused the cause of Mr. 
Leuthall. For this conduct, as he had no prop- 
erty to pay a fine, which they might impose, he 
was openly whipped. 

In the beginning of this year, the church was 
troubled with a Capt. Underhill, who, after be- 
having in a licentious manner in Boston, went to 
Piscataqua, where he derided the censures and 
authority of the church. 

Mr. Cotton, preaching from Kings viii. 8. un- 
dertook to show, that, when magistrates are oblig- 
ed to provide for the maintenance of ministers, 
the churches are in a declining condition. He 
gave it, as his opinion, that the preaciiers of the 
gospel should be supported, not by lands, reve- 
nues, and tithes, which are the occasion of pride, 
contention, and sloth, but by the voluntary con- 
tributions of 'heir hearers. 

At Providence Mr. W. and some of his com- 
pany were rebaptized, a f^cw months since ; after 
which he denied communion with all others. 
Now again he was ready to question his second 
b5*ptism, unable to derive its authority from the 
apostles, otherwise than by the ministers of Eng- 
land, whom he judged no authority whatever. 
In this difficulty he imagined, that God would 



C4 "WILSON. LOl rOK. 

si:cT. ir. raise up some apostolick power. He thereiorc 
1639. devoted himself to the expectation of that office. 
Formerly he could commune with none, but his 
wife, no^v he was in charity with professors of 
every class. On account of his thus shifting his 
ground, some of his followers left him, and re- 
turned to the churches, whence they had issued. 

A lesson on morals may be taken from a cir- 
cumstance, which, this year, happened. At the 
general court, holden in November, great com- 
plaint was made of the oppression of certain tra- 
ders. One Robert Kaine, who kept a shop in 
Boston, was notorious. The deputies fined him 
200/. and the magistrates 100/. The last sum 
only was paid. After the court had censured 
him, he was called to account by First Church. 
He bewailed his offence ; but a partial defence was 
set up by him or his friends, on the ground, that 
if a man lost in one commodity, he might make it 
up in another, and that, if through ignorance a man 
had sriven more for an article, than it was worth in 
Europe, he might sell it for more, than it was 
worth in Newengland. These things afforded 
Mr. Cotton an opportunity, on the next lecture 
day, to expose the errour of such false principles, 
and to give some directions on the subject. The 
false principles were these. 1. A man may sell 
as dear, and buy as cheap, as he can. 2. If a 
man lose by casualty in some of his commodi- 
tics, he may raise the price of the rest. 3. That 
he may sell, as he bought, though he paid too 
dear, and though the commodity be fallen. 4, 



WILSON. COTTON'. 65 

That as a man may take tlie advantage of his own sect. it. 
skill, so also he may of another's ignorance or nc- ""^eso"^ 
cessity. 5. Where time is given for payment, 
the same recompense is to be taken of one, as of 
another. 

Rules for trading were these. 1. A man may 
not sell above the current price, that is, such a 
price, as is usual in the time and place, and as 
another, who knows the worth of the commodity, 
would give for it, if he wanted it ; as that is cal- 
led current money, which every one will take. 2. 
When a man loses in his commodity for want of 
skill, he must look at it, as his own fault or cross, 
and therefore must not lay it upon another. 3. 
When a man loses by casualty of sea, it is a loss 
cast upon himself by providence, and he may not 
ease himself of it by casting it upon another. For 
a man would thus seem to provide against all 
providences, that he should never lose. But 
where there is a scarcity of the commodity, there 
men may raise their price, for now it is a hand of 
God upon the commodity, and not the person. 4. 
A man may not ask more for his commodity, than 
his selling price, as Ephron to Abraham, the land 
is worth so much. 

Some of the brethren were for excommunica- 
ting the man ; but he was excused by a simple 
admonition, on the presumption, that his errour 
was rather in his judgment, than in his heart. 

Towards the close of the year 1639, the con- 
gregation meditated the rebuilding of their housr 

T 



65 WILSON. COTTOX. 

SECT. 11. of worbhip. The old one, which was erected in 
^^.50 1632, having become not only decayed, but also 
too small to accommodate the people, there was 
no question about the necessity of a new house, 
but a ^vidc and warm difference of opinion re- 
specting where it should stand. Some of the 
inhabitants were for placing it on what was then 
called the green, now probably common street, 
which was the governour's first lot. Others, par- 
ticularly the tradesmen, were inclined to build it 
still nearer the market, than where the old one 
stood, which was near the spot now occupied by 
the northwest corner of the Exchange. Many 
words were expended in both talking and writing 
on the subject. Mr. Cotton, without whom nei- 
ther ecclesiastical, civil, nor secular affairs appar- 
ently prospered, at length interfered. It was un- 
safe, in his opinion, to remove it to the green, as 
many persons had purchased and settled round 
the market, in the expectation of being accommo- 
dated, as in other things, so in their proximity to 
the place of worship. It was finally determined 
with a good degree of harmony to erect the new 
church on the plat, where the Old Brick lately 
stood, and which now is covered by the block of 
buildings in cornhill square. The contractors 
for the work calculated, that it would cost 600/. 
They offered to take the old for half that sum, 
and the complement was to be supplied by volun- 
tary contributions of the people. The church 
however cost about 1000/. ; yet the expenses 



WILSON. COTTON. ^7 

were defrayed without either murmurs or assess- sect. ii. 
ments. ig3?. 

The religious society was now in a prosperous 
state. That disaffection, which a majority of the 
members had formerly manifested towards the 
pastor and governour, had happily subsided, and 
all was tranquillity and love. A while since, 
these gentlemen were viewed, as under a covenant 
of works, and having no interest in the doctrines 
of grace. But, under these suspicions and cool 
treatment, they had behaved with great meek- 
ness, never complaining of unkind usage, nor 
manifesting zeal for the propagation of their own 
opinions. Though often and strongly solicited 
to withdraw themselves from communion, they 
had withstood the solicitation, until now the odi- 
um, which was upon them, had gradually worn 
away, and they found themselves in possession of 
the wonted confidence and affection of their 
friends. The governour in particular had a proof 
of the returning love of the brethren, when, suf- 
fering a heavy loss, through the delinquency of a 
bailiff, they generously presented him with 2Q0/, 
Men of prudence have here a fresh stimulus to 
perseverance in a course of moderation, and a 
new proof, that principle and truth will cventualh.- 
triumph over faction and falsehood. 

In truth, the temper of the times had begun to 
soften, and, if theological combatants had lost 
none of their inward bitterness, they had yet 
learned to contend with better manners. Some- 
what of this accommodating disposition is visible 



65 WILSOX. COTTON. 

SECT. II. in a dispute, M'hich happened about this time be- 
""" jgo(j tween the magistrates and ministers, concerning 
the frequency and length of lectures. It was 
matter of observation and complaint among many, 
that the minds of the people were too highly ex- 
cited on the subject of religion, and that their 
health and property were impaired by a continml 
routine of devotional exercises. It was thereif:;rc 
proposed, that the general court should correct 
the procedure by some wholesome restrictions. 
Ministers vrere grieved at the proposal and said, 
that, admitting the evil to exist, it ought not to be 
cured in this way ; for it would be a virtual sub- 
jection of the ecclesiastical to the civil authority, 
whicli would go to abridge the liberties of the 
church, and create a stigma on the age in the eye 
of posterity. Finding the clergy so hurt by the 
intended measure, and knowing their influence in 
the community, the magistrates pushed the mat- 
ter no further. The discussion was nevertheless 
attended with salutary consequences. 
1640. It seemed, as though the hutchinsonian contro- 

versy was never to be terminated. In March, 
1640, the church sent a deputation of three mem- 
bers to Aquida to learn the grounds, upon which 
the church in that place admitted to communion 
excommunicated members. But the mission 
was v/orse than useless. It served to foment a 
parly spirit at home, and to exasperate the minds 
of those, for whose benefit the measure was in- 
tended. The persons, admonished, disclaimed any 
alliance with First Church, and of course its au- 



WILSOX. COTTON. c9 

thority. They had adjoined themselves to anoth- sect. ii. 
er church, and, as members of the new church, ^^^^ 
claimed the right of making their own regula- 
tions. This was not the only instance of the ac- 
tive, artful, and persevering spirit of Mrs. Hutch- 
inson. She was continually fruitful of contrivan- 
ces to secure her power, and to entangle in her 
toils the young and unwary. Two young men, 
designed for the ministry, by the names of Col- 
lins and Hales, were successively led by curiosity 
to be acquainted with so extraordinary a charac- 
ter. Their curiosity ended in a complete subjec- 
tion to her sway. 

Ineffectual as had been many efforts of the 
church towards producing a penitent temper in 
her refractory children, there is an instance on 
record of a different sort. One capt. Underbill, a 
notorious rogue, had often been admonished and 
suspended, and was at length cast out of the 
church for his ambitious, lascivious, and adulte- 
rous conduct. Still he showed no signs of re- 
pentance. Waxing worse and worse, he seemed 
ripening for eternal perdition. At Piscataqua he 
had established a church, and put himself in the 
governour's chair. But his civil and ecclesiasti- 
cal power was wholly directed to promote his own 
selfish and diabolical ends. Once indeed he pre- 
tended to something like a reformation ; but his 
hypocrisy was too evident to deceive the most 
charitable and credulous christian. All at once 
however he came from the eastward, and threw 
himself at the feet of the cliurch. All disguise 



TO "WILSON. COTTON. 

SECT. u. ^ind palliation and pride were at an end. With 
"^^ abundance of tears he bewailed and aggravated his 
offences, justifying the afflictive dispensations of 
providence towards him, and all the frowns and 
censures of the church. He went to the a-en.eral 
court, which was then sitting, and there repeated 
his dolorous contritions. Yet not many months 
elapsed, before he was as diligently as ever at 
work in scenes of contention and iniquity. 

Ever since the commencement of the hutchin- 
1641. sonian dispute, there had been so much talk and 
dissensions about the rights of the church and the 
authority of the court, that it was thought neces- 
sary by some, that the power of each should be 
exactly defined. A motion to this effect had 
been made, at a former session of the legislature. 
At the session holden in October, 1640, the sub- 
ject went through a new discussion ; but there 
was so great a difference of opinion among the 
members, that no decision was obtained. 

In the face however of that rigorous discipline, 
which was supported by the joint authority of 
magistrates and ministers, there were some, who 
were bold enough to indulge the utmost liberty of 
thought and expression. A Mr. Hugh Bewett, for 
instance, made no secret of declaring his belief, 
that he was free from original sin, and that, for 
some time past, he had been guilty of no actual 
transgression. In this avowal he seemed desirous 
of gaining no peculiar reputation for sanctity ; 
for he maintained, that similar purity of life is at- 
tainable by christians in gencj-al. Yet he was 



WILSON. COTTON. 7.1 

thought a monster of impiety, and by the court of ^ect h. 
assistants banished the jurisdiction. ~Imi~ 

At the autumnal session of the general court, in 
1641, it was ordered, that the ministers should 
agree upon a form of catechism, which should be 
printed for general use. 

It was again the misfortune of our church to 
be troubled with one or two members of the 
Hutchinson family. Rumours of their new and 
increasing heresies at Aquida had sometimes 
reached this part of the country ; but, as they 
were at a great distance, little apprehension was 
felt concerning them. Becoming every thing by 
turns, they at length turned baptists ; andj as if 
the parent church had not been sufficiently en- 
lightened with their new divinity, a son of Mrs. 
H. and a son-in-law, named Collins, came to Bos- 
ton with a fresh supply of innovating doctrines. 
It was now taught by these fanaticks, that there 
had been founded no true churches, since the 
days of the apostles ; that the church was at 
present in the wilderness ; that she could enjoy 
no ordinances, and make no progress, until she 
came forth from her state of darkness. Hearing 
certain of their scandalous speeches against First 
Church and the civil government, the govemour 
sent for Collins and Hutchinson, who came before 
him, and who, refusing to acknowledge contrition 
for their errours, \vere committed to prison. The 
court afterwards fined the former of these men 
100/. and the latter 50/. ; but, as they utterly re 
fused to pay, patiently remaining imprisoned, the 



72 WILSON. COTTON". 

SECT. II. magistrates relented, remitted their fines, and 
iCAi S'^^^' them their liberty. 

Perhaps die morals of the inhabitants of the 
tow a never were purer, since its setdement,than at 
the present period. It is said, that of twelve hun- 
dr(^d men bearing arms on a training day not one 
was intoxicated, or guilty of using profane lan- 
guage. 

It may be proper here to mention an instance 
of pastoral fidelity in Mr. Cotton. It was moved 
in caucus by one Mr. Hathorne, a man of some 
influence, that two of their deputies, of long- 
standing, who had fallen into low circumstances, 
but otherwise respectable, should be dropped and 
succeeded by others in more eligible circumstan- 
ces. Mr. Cotton, hearmg of the project, took 
occasion, on the next lecture day, pointedly, 
though prudently, to condemn it. He taught, 
that, if old and faithful officers had grown poor in 
the publick service, they should be maintained at 
the publick expense. The reproof was clearly 
understood and pungently felt ; for the motion 
was never renewed. 

The unbounded liberty of opinion, which was 
^^*-- tolerated at Providence, was, at times, the occasion 
of no little disturbance. Gorton was incessantly 
busy and sometimes mischievous. It was con- 
tended amongst them by some, that a portion of 
power belonged to the church ; others maintained, 
that she had none. Mr. Williams moderated the 
fury of the parties. 



WILSON", corrox. 73 

One Turner of Churlestovvn, having led an sect. Ji. 
immoral life, became alarmed at his situation by iq^TT 
the preaching of Mr. Shepard. His religious 
melanclioly rose to such an intolerable height, that 
he threw himself into a pit and drowned. 

William Aspinwall, who had formerly been 
banished for his adherence to Wheelwright, came 
and voluntarily confessed his errours, and was 
received into the bosom of the church. He did 
the same to the general court, who thence released 
his banishment. 

Capt. Underhill was now in favour with the 
ehurch, who assisted him in his preparations to 
go with his family and seek a settlement among 
the Dutch in the state of Newyork. 

A cooper's wife at Hingham, under the influ- 
ence of enthusiasm, went to a creek in the neigh- 
bourhood of her house and threw in her child, 
about three years old, with an intention to drown 
it. This attempt was repeated, though it proved 
successless through the interposition of passen- 
gers. She assigned no other reason for her conduct, 
than an endeavour to save her child from ever- 
lasting misery ; and she could not endure, that it 
should suffer that torment, of which she was cer- 
tain. She insisted upon it, that she had sinned 
against the Holy Ghost, and was incapable of re- ' 
pentance. 

In this year appeared a surreptitious edition of 
Mr. Cotton's book on the seven vials. A Mr. 
Humphrey had gotten the notes from a man, who 



71. W ILSOX. COl TON. 

SECT. u. had taken them in shorthand from the preacher's 
564'2. mouth, and printed them in London. Mr. Cotton 
complained much and justly of this injury ; not 
that he was ashamed of his sentiments, but he 
was entitled to the care, at least, of perusing aixl 
correcting the copy, before it was printed. 

Almost every year brought generous contribu- 
tions of people into the infant settlement from the 
parent country. Latterly however from the cir- 
culation of unfriendly reports concerning New- 
cngland, the spirit of emigration had greatly cool- 
ed. It was therefore a pleasing circumstance to 
welcome, in September of this year, the arrival of 
Mr. William Hibbins with a small company, 
whose dispositions and habits were in unison 
with the feelings and views of those, who had 
already become attached to the soil. Their voy- 
age had been perilous, and their thanksgiving to 
almighty God for the escape, they had made from 
a world of dangers, v/ere proportionally fervent 
and observable. 

It was in this year, that Messrs. Cotton, Daven- 
})ort, and Hooker received an invitation from 
England to visit that country, for the purpose of 
sitting in synod upon the principles and mode of 
ecclesiastical government. The request excited 
much attention and a diversity of opinion. Mr. 
Cotton, at first, thought favourably of a compli- 
ance, and so thought Mr. Davenport ; but Mr. 
Hooker, in this instance wiser than his brethren, 
openly gave it, as his opinion, that it was not their 
duty to leave their flocks in this wilderness, and 



WILSON. COITON. 75 

and traverse an ocean of three thousand miles ^ect.ii. 
to enter upon disquisitions and a controversy, of i642. 
which it was impossible to foresee the probable 
termination. Several circumstances, fortiniately 
for these worthy divines, obstructed their voy- 
age ; for letters soon were received from Eng- 
land, informing of a breach between the king and 
parliament, and advising the ministers to remain 
in Newengland. 

Another application of a different nature shortly 
after was received from Virginia. It was addres- 
sed to the general court, and gentlemen of influ- 
ence in the community, beseeching them to send 
ministers of the gospel into that region, that its 
inhabitants might be privileged with the preach- 
ing and ordinances of Jesus Christ. Messrs. 
Phillips, Tomson, and Miller were designated by 
a meeting of the ministers at thursday lecture ; 
but Mr. T. only could be prevailed on to obey 
the call. 

If ministers were unwilling to emigrate from 
Massachusetts, others were differently inclined. 
Many persons, growing discontented with their 
situation, thought to mend it by a removal ; but 
they not only thence lost the benefit of the educa- 
tion, discipline, and worship of christians ; but 
also plunged themselves into new and inextrica- 
ble difficulties of a temporal kind. These dis- 
tresses excited so much sympathy, and the pro- 
pensity to emigrate nevertheless continuing, that it 
began to be a question in the church, whether, 
among christians thus situated, emigration was 



"WII.rjON. COTTON. 

lawful. It was said, on the one part, that people 
coming together into a wilderness of beasts and 
savages, and here entering into a state of civil and 
ecclesiastical society, do implicitly bind them- 
selves to support that social state. How then 
can they break away from such a society without 
the general consent ? Who would abandon the 
privileges of European society for a residence in 
the desert, if he must run the risk of being left 
to subdue it alone ? If one may take up his 
connexions, so may another ; and in ihe event of 
a general departure, where is the commonwealth, 
the hope of so many ardent and excellent minds ? 
Where is the church, which was planted with so 
much difficulty, and watered with so many tears ? 
On the other side, it was alleged, that, if restraint 
was begun to be laid on the actions of settlers, 
there was no knowing, what would be the end ; 
that enterprize would be checked ; that it was 
resisting that very liberty, in the exercise of 
which this colony was commenced ; and that 
people never would vigorously assist in builds 
ing up a state, in v^hich they were compelled 
to remain. It was therefore pretty generally 
agreed, that ail should enjoy their freedom, though 
it clearly was the duty of each one to choose 
rather with Moses to suffer affliction with the 
people of God, than to seek temporal ease and 
pleasure at the hazard of ruin. 

In November, 1G42, arrived here from the isl- 
and of Madeira a small ship laden with wines and 
iruitj in which came her owner, Mr. Parish. This 



WILSON. COTTON. 77 

gentleman had lived several years with papists stxt. ii. 
and jcs>uils, who endeavoured to dissuade him .J642 
from coming to Newengland, telling him, that its 
inhabitants were the worst of all hereticks, the 
destroyers of bishops and churches, and the pro- 
moters of all sorts of mischief. On coming to 
this country however, he found the previous rep- 
resentations of it to have been, false. He blessed 
the providence of God, which had conducted him 
hither, and departed with a declaration, that he 
would not lose what he had gotten in Boston for 
the wealth of the world. 

On hearing the news of the civil wars between ^54- 
the king and parliament of England, First Church 
devoted a day to fasting and prayer ; and her ex 
ample was followed by most of her sister church- 
es. These days of humiliation, in the opinion of 
the magistrates, were becoming too frequent ; but 
they neither durst nor chose to abridge the liberty 
of the churches. 

The mode of raising the salaries of ministers 
was different in different churches. Some did it 
by taxation, others by voluntary contribution. 

On 4 June, Mr. Knolles, having returned 
from Virginia, whither he and his fellowlabourers 
had gone to disseminate the gospel, presented 
letters from respectable gentlemen in that region 
to the governour and some of the ministers. It 
appeared that the mission had been productive of 
happy effects. 

There are instances of seventy in the discipline 
of the church, which have been salutary in the 



rs ^vILSo^!. cotton. 

SECT. II. issue. A Mrs. Hett had been cast out for her 



1643. wicked and blaspliemous speeches, who became 
alarmed at her situation, reformed her manners, 
and returned to the discharge of her pious and 
social duties. 

In this year, assembled all the ministers of Mas- 
sachusetts in the town of Cambridge. About 
fifty composed the assembly. They all boarded 
in commons, during the session ; and their diet 
was so simple and so economical, that each meal 
was furnished to the members for sixpence a 
piece. Mr. Cotton and Mr. Hooker were the 
moderators. The object of the convention was 
to resist the attempts of certain persons, lately ar- 
rived at Newbury, and others to establish a pres- 
bytery. 

The church was troubled with the errours of 
the fanatical Gorton, whom the governour took 
with his adherents and brought to Boston. At 
first they refused to attend pubhck worship, but 
were at length prevailed on to hear Mr. Cotton, 
on condition that they might have liberty of re^ 
plying to his arguments. The opinions of this 
sect, like those of Mrs. Hutchinsow, were a com- 
pound of Calvinism and fatalism, and almost utter- 
ly unintelligible to the generality of christians. 
They maintained, for instance, " that there was 
nothing now but Christ ; that ordinances, means, 
and ministers were merely the inventions of men, 
and shrines only of the temple of Diana ; that, as 
Christ lived eternally, so he died eternally ; that 
magistracy was an idol of the people ; and that a 



WILSOX. COTTOX /.- 

man might as well be a slave to his owu belly, as sect. it. 
to his own species." Such was the nonsense, i644. 
which, in those days, disturbed the peace of the 
churches, and which the magistrates and ministers 
thought fit to chastize with fines and imprison- 
ment. 

In the beginning of the year 1644, Mr. 
Wheelwright, who, five years since, had caused 
the church so much uneasiness, wrote a letter to 
the general court, in which he discovered a spirit 
of moderation, penitence, and love of peace, that 
gave great satisfaction. He was accordingly, af- 
ter a time, released from the odium and sentence 
of banishment, under which he had been holden. 
Congregationalists were alarmed at the increase 
of the baptists. The magistrates, after encoura- 
ging the elders to use with them the means of 
reformation, ordered, that such, as continued ob- 
stinate, should be banished. It ought to be re- 
membered for the honour of the ministers of the 
Prince of peace, that they did somewhat towards 
softening the rigour of this unrighteous decree. 

There was, this year, a petition drawn up in 1545 
Hingham, and signed by seven of the inhabitants, 
complaining, among other thirjgs, of the want of 
religious liberty. It stated, that there were many 
persons in die community of good morals, and 
members of the church of England, who are yet 
prohibited the Lord's supper, because they will 
not subscribe the church's covenan t. Such a 
subscription they could not justify to their con- 
sciences, on the principles of the scriptures. Yet 



80 WILSOX. COTTON. 

sr.CT. II they were compelled to attend on publick vvor= 
~^[^3 sliip, every Lord's day. Much notice was taken 
of them, and many hard speeches uttered con- 
cerning them, if they did not stay, whilst the chil- 
dren of others were baptized, although baptism 
was denied to their own ; and in some instances 
they \'iere forced to contribute to the maintenance 
of such ministers, as would not receive them into 
their flocks. It was, on the ground of these com- 
plaints and disabilities, that they requested liberty, 
either as episcopalians of enjoying the benefit of 
ordinances with congregationalists, or of forming 
an episcopalian establishment for themselves. 

Six of these seven petitioners were cited before 
the court and charged with a number of offences 
and a general character of rebellion to the order 
of the churches, and accordingly were fined and 
imprisoned. Governour Winthrop's popularity 
^vas put at hazard by this affair ; but he defended 
himself with so much firmness, and he possessed 
so entirely the confidence of a great majority of 
the commonwealth, that he was exculpated, and 
thenceforth shared more liberally than ever in the 
affections of the people. The petitioners howev- 
er were not to be thus disheartened in their pur- 
pose. They resolved to lay their case before the 
parliament of England ; and Dr. Child and Mr. 
Fowle accordingly took ship immediately in 
prosecution of this purpose. Tlie government of 
Massachusetts were alarmed at the measure, and 
did every thing in their power to frustrate the 
design. Mr. Cotton hesitated not in one of his 



1647 



WILSON. COTTON. fc 

sermons to declare, that, if any person should at- sect. ii. 
tempt to carry writings complaining of the eccle- 
siastical proceedings of this country to Britain, 
he \\'ould be a Jonas in the ship. These words 
of the patriarch were considered oracular. It so 
liappened, that a violent storm arose on the pas- 
sage, and one of the female passengers, distracted 
with fear, went to Mr. Fovvle, and by her cries and 
entreaties prevailed on him to give up the obnox- 
ious petition, which she instantly cast into the 
sea. Mr. Fowle had however taken care to pre- 
serve the original papers, which he published, on 
his arrival, under the title of " New England's 
Jonas cast up at London." But the Parliament 
were too busily engaged in other concerns to 
take cognizance of the thing. 

In the year 1648, terminated the synod, which ^g^g 
began its session in Cambridge, in 1646. Its 
sessions had been short and infrequent. Its la- 
bours principally consisted in compiling what is 
called the Cambridge platform, which, together 
with the Westminster confession of faith, they 
now recommended to the general court and to 
the churches of Nevvengland. 

In 1650, there were about forty churches in 
Newengknd, and seven thousand, seven hundred 
and fifty communicants. 

Nothing remarkable transpired in the church 
from this time until the death of Mr. Cotton. 
One thousand and thirty-four children had been 
baptized, since Mr. Cotton's ordination. Of these 
538 were males, and 456 females. 



fe.'jo 



ii2 UILSON. COTTON. 

six'.T. u. There had also been admitted, during this peri- 
" ~~ od, that is, from the beginning of 1634 to the end 
of 1652, 306 men and 343 women, in all 649. 
Seventeen persons had been admonished publick- 
ly, and five excommunicated for irreclaimable er- 
rours. It was an uncommonly interesting epoch 
to the church. A fraternity was to be formed of 
discordant materials. Many of those, who com- 
posed the church,had been educated Episcopalians, 
and were therefore disinclined to vary from estab- 
lished forms. Others had come to Newengland, 
rather as adventurers, than as christians, and 
could hardly be subjected to any ecclesiastical or 
political rules. But the sagacity and evcrwatch- 
ful discipline of Mr. Cotton was astonishingly 
efficacious towards conforming all descriptions of 
characters to habits of obedience and order. The 
talents, industry, and influence of this man were 
of such immense importance to the church in its 
infant state, that it will not be improper to close 
the section with a few notices of his life, writings, 
and character. 

Rev. John Cotton was born at Derby, Eng- 
land, of respectable parents, in 1584. He was 
early sent to the grammar school in the place of 
his nativity, whence he was taken to Cambridge, 
and admitted a member of Trinity college. His 
industry and attainments were equally conspicu- 
ous ; and he soon became first a member, and 
afterwards a fellow of Emmanuel college in the 
same university. Frequent opportunities occur- 
red for the exercise of his abilities ; and in all of 



WILSON. COTTON. 83 

tliem he fully disclosed a deep penetration, a fine sect, ii 
fancy, and uncommon scholarship. So perfect jg.,., 
was his knowledge of the Hebrew, that, it is said, 
he could easily converse in that language. He 
cheerfully assumed the profession, to which his 
parents had destined him, and consecrated his 
faculties to the good of the church. His fu'st 
labours in the ministry were bestowed on a con- 
gregation in Boston, Lincolnshire, which duly es- 
timated his singular powers and faithful services. 
But there he was threatened with the rod of pre- 
latical oppression. He was too simple in his 
manners to kneel at the altar ; and too busy in 
unfolding the great doctrines of his master to con- 
form with exactness to the idle ceremonies of 
episcopal invention. Mr. Cotton fled to a coun- 
try, where he might read and interpret the scrip- 
tures for himself, and worship the Deity without 
doing violence to the dictates of conscience. In 
1633, he embarked for Ncwengland ; and never did 
the congregational church in this section of our 
country receive a more valuable accession from 
the parent state. On his arrival, which was a 
joyous event to all descriptions of people, he was 
immediately associated with Mr. Wilson, as 
teacher of First Church. Here he interested him- 
self in both the ecclesiastical and civil aflfairs of 
the new plantation ; and so commanding and 
extensive was his influence, that he was styled 
the patriarch of Newengland. It may be al- 
most said, that from him Boston received its 
name, and its inhabitants their laws. In expound 



81 WILSON. COTTOX. 

SECT. II. ing the scriptures, and in applying their holy 
1652. precepts to the consciences of his hearers, he was 
remarkably In mi nous, powerful, and consolatory. 
All his fellow- worshippers were seriously impres- 
sed by his gravity and devotion in the house of 
God. He was equally eminent for his capacity, 
as a ruling elder in the church, having an unusual 
power of expression and management. " He was 
indeed a burning and a shining light ; and the 
people were willing, for a season, to rejoice in his 
light.'^ 

It was not however permitted to this great and 
good man to enjoy an unclouded day of terrestrial 
happiness. In opposing the tenets of Roger 
Williams, he was accused of supporting princi- 
ples, which he had formerly laboured to subvert. 
England saw him resist the spirit of hierarchy ; 
here he seemed desirous of cherishing it. Again, 
in the antinomian dispute, which happened in 
1637, concerning Anne Hutchinson, Mr. C. un- 
fortunately espoused with too much tenderness 
the cause of fonaticism, and, in the heat of the 
controversy, lost his temper, and, of course, a 
portion of his dignity and influence. His ene- 
mies, for who is without them ? failed not to use 
his apparent inconsistencies to his mortification. 
His life was rendered uneasy, and he sighed for 
the undisturbed repose, which he had vainly hop- 
ed to enjoy in this land of promise. 

Meekness, piety, goodnature, and talents how- 
ever, such as fell to the lot of Cotton, could not 
long sufi'er their posscssour to be comfortless. It 



W1I.S0N. COTFON. 8:> 

could scarcely happen, that a career of life so ^spxt. ii. 
honourably begun should be otherwise, than glo- ~^ 
riously finished. A mind bursting with gene- 
rous efforts for the welfare of society soon regain- 
ed its tranquillity ; and his affectionate heart re- 
ceived the consolation, he wished, in the gratitude, 
the confidence, and the improvement of his 
friends. The clouds, which obscured his de- 
scending sun, like a storm of thunder in June, 
gave way to a mild and peaceful radiance ; and the 
glories of his departing day had all the majesty of 
full orbed virtue. He died, 23 Dec. 1652, at 
the age of sixty-seven, universally and deeply la- 
mented. Both governours and governed bewail- 
ed the loss of a man, who, if he loved the rewards 
of religion, had a still greater love for religion it- 
self, and who, if he loved the possession of power, 
was disposed to use it for the security of just men 
and the triumphs of truth. He carried with him 
to the tomb the unutterable regrets of his friends ; 
and every individual of an afflicted community 
was ready to adopt the words of Elisha, when he 
beheld the ascending prophet, " My father, my 
father, the chariots of Israel and the horsemen 
thereof." 

List of Rev, John Cotton's works. 

1. The way of life, in four treatises. Lond. 1641, pp. 

481. 4to. 

2. Christ the fountain of life. Lon. 1651. pp. 256. 4to. 
r>. God's mercies mixed with his justice. Lon. 1641, 

pp. 135. 4to. 



86 AVILSON. COTTON. 

SECT ir "*' r*o^"'^"g °ut of the seven vials. Lon. 1645. pp. loG. 

J to. 

1652. ^ Yhe church's resurrection. Lon. 1642. pp 30. 4to. 

6. The way of the churches in N.E.Lon. 1645. pp. 116. 

4to. 

7. Holiness of church members. Lon. 1650. pp. 95. 4to. 

8. Abstract of laws and government, (posth.) Lon. 1655. 

pp. 35. 4tO. 

9. Keys of the kingdom of heaven. Lon. 1644. pp. 59* 

2d ed. 4to. 

10. Exposition on the xiii. chap, of Rev. Lon. 1655. 4to. 

11. Milk for babes. 

12. Sermon on 1 John, folio. 

13. Expositions on Ecclesiastes and Cant. 165. 12mo. 

14. Treatise of nevi^ covenant (posth) 

15. Answer to Mr. Ball concerning forms, &c. 

16. Discourse on grounds and ends of infant baptism. 

17. Discourse on singing of psalms. 

18. Discourse on things indifferent- 
ly. Answer to Mr. Cawdry. 

20. Answer to Mr. Bayley. 

21. Answer to Mr. Williams. 



SECTION III. 



From the death of Mr. Cotton, 165S, to the settlement of Mr. 
Norton, 1636 

X HE four years, which elapsed between the death 

of Mr. Cotton, and ihe settlement of Mr. Norton, ^^'^ "^' 

were not strongly marked by imy events, either 1652. 

prosperous or adverse to the church, if we except 

the waste of life in those, who had contributed to 

her foundation and support. 

The death of Hon. Thomas Dudley, many years 
lieut. governour, and afterwards for three several 
years, governour of Massachusetts, happened on 
31 July, 1653. He was born at Northampton, 
England, in 1574. He had been an ardent, ac- 
tive, and useful member of the church, seeking 
its prosperity with an enlightened and steady zeal. 
His excessive bitterness against sectaries had 
been unpardonable in any otJier, than an age, 
when the principles of civil and religious liberty 
were imperfectly understood. He had been con- 
versant with martial as well, as civil lite, had filled 
a variety of offices, and all of diem with dignity to 
himself and u.sefulness to the publick. The dis- 
pute, into which he was led with governour 



g8 WILSON. 

SECT. III. Winthrop, in 1631, strikingly displayed the 
— TTTT' pictv and s:cntleness of both. The srovernour had 
raised in Mr. Dudley a belief, that Cambridge 
would be tlie seat of government, and, on the foot 
of that expectation, he there planted himself and 
family. Boston however became the capital ; 
and Dudley demanded satisfaction of Winthrop 
for the disappointment and expense, he had sus- 
tained. The matter was referred to the ministers, 
who decreed that the governour should procure 
them a minister at Cambridge, and contribute 
to his subsistence ; or, fliiling in this measure, 
should give the deputy 20/. towards defraying the 
cost of his building. The alternative was cho- 
sen ; but, on paying the stipulated sum, the dep- 
uty generously refused its acceptance ; and the 
affair was terminated with mutual professions of 
esteem and confidence. 

Ecclesiastical concerns were not now the sub- 
ject of much conversation ; for the state was bus- 
ily employed in protecting herself against her en- 
emies. 
16.55. In the year 1655, according to the historians of 
that day, Mrs. Anne Hibbins was tried and con- 
demned for a witch, and executed in the follow- 
ing year. There is however no notice of this 
fact in First Church records. 
1556. On the extinction of so splendid a luminary, as 
that of Cotton, it became necessary, in the esti- 
mation of the church, to kindle in its place anoth- 
er light. Rev. John Norton of Ipswich, then 
distinguished for his literary and theological at- 



WILSON. 89 

taiiiments, was mentioned, as a suitable candidate ; sect. iir. 
and, it was said, had been nominated by Mr. 1555. 
Cotton hiinselfin his last hours. This gentleman 
soon came to Boston, and resided here awhile, ex- 
ecuting the duties of a minister ; but he occasion* 
ally visited Ipswich, and, on the death of Mr. 
Rogers, in 1655, the tradition is, that he was al- 
most persuaded to return to the people of that 
place. On 29 Nov. 1655, a church meeting was 
holden at the house of the pastor, in which it was 
voted to give Mr. Norton 200/. towards the pur- 
chase of a house, on the supposition that he be- 
comes the teacher of the church. Numerous 
obstacles impeded the union. After the lapse of 
nearly four years, the sitting of several ecclesiasti- 
cal councils, and the decision of the governour 
and magistrates in favour of his removal, he and 
his wife were admitted members of First Church, 
6 July, 1656 ; and his installation took place, on the 
23d of the same month. 

From the commencement of the year 1653 to 16J6 
the end of 1656, there had been two hundred and 
ten children baptized, one hundred and twenty- 
three of whom were males. Twenty -four persons, 
during the same period, were admitted to com- 
munion, seventeen of whom were women. Three 
men and as many women had been dismissed, at 
their own desire, to other churches ; one male ad- 
monished for keeping evil company ; three males 
excommunicated for the sins of drunkenness and 
adultery ; and one male, acknowledging the sin 

M 



90 WILSON. 

SECT III ^^ drunkenness, for which he had been suspend- 
— ;; — ed, restored to the bosom of the church. 

No regular record of marriages and deaths, for 
aught that appears, was, at this or any subsequent 
period, kept by any of the pastors, until the time 
of Dr. Clarke, 



1655. 



SECTION IV. 

From the settlement of Mr. Norton, 1657, to liis Jcatli, 1663. 

In the opinion of the church and its friends, the g^^^ ^^^ 
settlement of Mr. Norton was an auspicious event. 
One of his earliest official duties was to go with 
elder James Penn to Siilisbury, for the settling of 
a religious controversy. In those days, missions 
of that nature were sufficiently frequent. For a 
similar purpose he went with a delegate to Hart- 
ford, in the beginning of 1657. 

A deal of mischief was now happening to the 
quakers, twelve of whom were banished by the 
government. 

In January, 1657, the following question was 
proposed to the church, which passed in the af- 
firmative. " Whether the relation of immediate 
children of church members be such, as giveth 
the church a church power over them, and conse- 
quently, whether it is the duty of the church to ex- 
ercise that power regularly upon them, that their 
life and knowledge may be answerable to the en- 
gagement of their relation ; and whether it be the 
church's mind, that solemn notice be given to 
them seasonably." It was, in consequence of this 



1657. 



92 AVILSON. NORTON. 

SECT. IV. vote, for some time the practice of the church to 
1657. admonish and even excommunicate the offending 
children of church members. In the course of 
the year, a kind of synod was holden by twenty-six 
ministers to consult on the subject of enlarging 
the door to the ordinances, particularly to baptism. 
It was agreed, that the children of church mem- 
bers should be baptized. For the same and one 

1562. * 

other purpose, another synod was holden at Bos- 
ton, in 1662, by recommendation of the general 
court. 

The decision was similar, in the case of bap- 
tism, to what had been formerly given. The synod 
declared, that " church members, who were ad- 
mitted in minorit}^ understanding the doctrine of 
faith, and publickly professing their assent there- 
unto, not scandalous in life, and solemnly owning 
the covenant before the church, wherein they 
give up themselves and children to the Lord, and 
subject themselves to the government of Christ 
in his church, their children are to be baptized." 
The other matter before the synod was, whether it 
be expedient to have a consociation of churches ? 
This question was answered in the affirmative. 
Yet it does not appear, that any measures were 
taken to effectuate the design. 
1663. -f^^^ following year is rendered memorable in 

the church by the death of Mr. Norton. This 
gentleman was born, 6 May, 1606, at Stortford, 
Hertfordshire, England, of poor but respectable 
parents. In early childhood, he discovered a 
ripeness of wit, which indicated extraordinary 



WILSON. NORTON. 93 

powers in future life. He was seasonably placed sect, iv 
at school under Mr. Strange, of Bunningford. ^gg. 
At the age of fourteen, he was sent to Peter- 
house, where he stayed, until he had taken his 
first degree. Here a missionary of the roman 
church, carefully observing his talents and beha- 
viour, used every means to draw him into the 
support of the catholick faith without success. 
He left the university for an ushership at the 
school, and a curacy in the church of Stortford. 
He here devoted himself to the writing of sermons, 
and became excellent in the practice. His learn- 
ing and abilities rendered him an object of atten- 
tion with the dignitaries of the church ; but his 
conscience would not suffer him to conform to 
episcopal ceremonies, which he deemed unscrip- 
tural. A fellowship in Katherine-hall, Cam- 
bridge, he was also solicited to take by Dr. Sibs ; 
but his aversion from episcopacy prevented his 
acceptance. He contented himself with being 
private chaplain to Sir William Marham, in Two- 
Knights-house. He was also associated with a 
number of pious ministers, equally firm with 
himself in dissenting from the established church, 
in the maintenance of a stated lecture in his native 
town, from which, he always thought, he derived 
professional and personal improvement. 

Mr. Edward Winslow, afterwards governour of 
Plymouth, sailing for England, in 1633, was em- 
ployed by the people of Old Colony to procure 
them a minister. In the execution of this design 



94 WILSON. NORTON. 

SECT. IV. he met with Norton, and persuaded him to come 

1663. over. 

In the year 1634, Mr. Norton married, and 
embarked with his wife for Ne wen gland ; but, 
being driven back by a violent storm, he did not 
arrive in America, until the following year. 

He resided in Plymouth, one winter only, com- 
plaining, that his accommodations were not such, 
as he expected, and preferring the situation of 
Massachusetts, and the temper of the inhabitants. 
Having awhile associated with the ministers and 
people of Boston and the vicinity, he planted 
himself in Ipswich, where a company of worthy 
christians contributed as much to his comfort, as 
he to their edification. 

On his removal to this church, he wrote the life 
of his predecessor in a style of eloquence exceed- 
ing any thing, which this country had witnessed 
in any of his contemporaries. At the age of thirty, 
his reputation for scholarship was high in the parent 
country. Here, with the exception of president 
Chauncy, he was without a rival. In 1644, 
Gulielmus Apollonius of Zealand, a dutch divine, 
sent hither a number of questions on ecclesiastical 
government. It was unanimously agreed among 
the clergy, that Mr. Norton should assume the 
task of answering the work. He despatched it, 
the following year, in the first latin book ever writ- 
ten in this country. It is prefaced by a short 
address to the reader signed, Tho. Goodwin, 
Phil. Nye, Sidr. Simpson, dated Lend. Feb. 16, 
1647 ; and by an elaborate epistle of some length 



WILSON. XORTOX. 95 

to the author, signed Johannes Cotton in Ecclesia sfxt. iv 
Bostoniensi Presbyter doccns. The performance jsGS. 
was celebrated in both hemispheres for the learn- 
ing, discernment, candour, and elegance, which it 
displayed. 

In the synod, which met at Cambridge in 1646, 
and protracted its sessions, until 1648, Mr. Nor- 
ton acted a conspicuous part, revealed an unusual 
acquaintance with school divinity, and left the 
traces of his pen in the lines of the platform. 

His tenets were in the highest degree rigid, 
surpassing in terrour even those of the celebrated 
Calvin. He maintained, that there is one God 
subsisting in three persons ; that the will of God is 
the cause of all causes, and second causes the 
eifects of the first cause ; that the will of man is 
an instrument disposed and determined to its 
action according to the decree of God, being 
equally subordinate to it, as is the axe to the hand 
of the hewer ; that man, even in violating God's 
command, fulfils God's decree ; that the infallible 
ordering of the existence of sin for a better end, 
and the forbidding of sin are not at all inconsist- 
ent, but fall under the compass of the same one 
volition of God, which cannot be resisted or de- 
feated ; that God is not the author of sin, and yet 
that he does not merely permit it, since he has 
decreed it ; that the reprobates freely commit 
such a measure of sin, as fits them for the intend- 
ed measure of wrath ; that man is a free agent, 
having a real efficiency, though subordinate to the 
first cause, which determines the second in its 



96 W[LSOX. NOUTOX. 

SKCT. IV. operation ; tlmt all mankind participated in Ad 
Tt^i am's sin, and also have it imputed to them ; that 
original sin is the hereditary and habitual contra- 
riety and enmity of the nature of man against the 
^vhole will of God ; that God has elected, whom 
in his wisdom and mercy he pleased, to eternal 
li-fe ; that the conversion of these is the effect of 
God's spirit ; that good works are necessary, as 
the way to salvation, but not as the cause ; that 
the only meritorious cause of salvation is the 
active and passive obedience of Jesus Christ, 
which is imputed to believers, and received by 
faith alone ; that only the elect believe in the Re- 
deemer ; that their faith is the effect of absolute, 
special, irresistible grace ; and that the will is 
passive, not having the nature of a free agent, in 
the first reception of grace. 

The severity of his religious system led Mr. 
Norton to favour a principle of intolerance. He 
had charity enough to walk with those, between 
whom and himself there was a difference of senti- 
ment on subjects of minor importance ; but, 
when he thought the fundamental doctrines of 
Christianity were denied, he justified the magis- 
trate in unsheathing the sword ; not recollecting, 
that what he deemed a fundamental doctrine 
might be considered an unessential tenet by a 
fellow- christian ; and that, since they both had 
renounced the authority of any earthly infallible 
judge, the only way to live quietly was to allow- 
to each other the right of inquiring and deciding 
for himself. 



WILSOX. NORTON'. 97 

In his piiblick performances Mr. Norton prov- sect.iv. 
cd liimself master of a copious eloquence, equally j^.., 
eapti\ating to the scholar and the unlettered chris- 
tian. Those, who had enjoyed his pastoral in- 
structions in Ipswich, frequently travelled to Bos- 
ton, after his removal, for the l3enefit of his lec- 
tures ; and such was the influence of his prayers 
on the young divines of that day, that they made 
him their model, as to the matter and manner of 
their pulpit devotions. 

In private life Mr. Norton was blameless and 
exemplary, though he had to contend with a chol- 
erick temper, and a natural inclination to gaiety. 

To his other good qualities Mr. Norton joined 
an ardent and steady attachment to his adopted 
country. His patriotism led him to earnest and 
successful efforts to prevent hostilities between 
the people of this colony and their Dutch neigh- 
bours, and afterward to embark for England in 
company with Simon Bradstreet, esq. with an ad- 
dress to Charles II. on his restoration to the 
throne. This embassy however, in its issue, 
was fatal to the popularity and peace of Mr. Nor- 
ton. Hiving faithfully served the interests of 
the country, the agents returned with this assur- 
ance from the king, that he would ratify to the 
colony its charter. But along with this promise 
was a requisition, that justice should be adminis- 
tered in his name, and that all persons of sober 
conversation should be permitted to enjoy the or- 
dinance of the supper themselves, and that of bap- 



98 WILSON. NORTON. 

SECT. iv. tiiini for their children. Here was an infringe- 
'^^ nient, as the people conceived, of their religious 
freedom ; and it was instantly reported, that the 
agents had sold the liberties of the country. Mr. 
Norton's consciousness of integrity was hardly 
able to sustain his share of an unmerited reproach. 
The chilling looks, which he received from coun- 
tenances, once expressive of nothing but approba„ 
tion and friendship, damped the ardour of his 
professional pursuits, and contributed, it is 
thought, to shorten his days. For, after his re- 
turn, his wonderful talent in extempore prayer 
was no longer admired ; and the same sermons, 
which in other days were heard with a kind of 
ecstacy, now fell powerless on the ears of a lan- 
guid auditory. It is traditioned, that even the 
venerable and benevolent Wilson was heard to 
say, that he must have another colleague. Mr. 
Norton died suddenly, 5 April, 1663, leavhig no 
children. He was the author of the following 
publications. 

1. Responsio ad totam quaestionum syllogen, Sec. Sec. 

Lond. 1648. 12mo. 

2. A letter in latin to John Dury. 

3. A Discussion of the Sufferings of Christ. 165,3. I2mo, 
4- The Orthodox Evangelist. 1654, 4to. 

5. Election Sermon, 1657, 12mo. 

6. Life of Rev. John Cotton, 1658. 

7. Heai-t of Newengland rent by the blasphemies of the 

present generation, Sec. 1660, &vo. 

8. Election Sermon, 1661. 

9. A Catechism. 



WILSON. NORTON. 90 

10. Three choice and profitable sermon s on several texts ^^(j'j- j^ 
being the last sermons, which he preached at the ■■■■■ 
election, at the Thursday lecture, and on the ^^^'^• 
sabbath. 1664. 



From the year 1657 to the end of 1663, seven- 
ty-one members were added to the church, forty 
nine of whom were females. 

During the same space of time, the number of 
female baptisms was one hundred and fifty-four,and 
that of male baptisms one hundred and forty-nine. 

Concerning the period, to which these minutes 
relate, we cannot but remark, that a persecuting 
temper was the fault of the age. The quakers 
especially were now treated with a degree of 
severity altogether unjustifiable, on any principles 
of the gospel or of common humanity. It is to 
be feared, that Mr. Norton too much approved 
the course, which was pursued against them. 
For they cordially rejoiced in his death, and re- 
ported, " that the Lord had smitten John Norton, 
chief priest of Boston, and, as he was sinking 
down by the fireside, being under just judgment, 
he confessed the hand of the Lord was upon 
him, and so he died." Mr. Norton undoubtedly 
partook of the fault of the age, which was a per- 
secuting temper. Men, who had been imprison- 
ed in England for their zeal in nonconformity, 
were here imprisoning others for precisely the 
same fault. They mixed their politicks with 
their religion, and blended the articles of their 
creed with consideration for the publick safety. 



log WILSON. Is'ORTON. 

SECT. IV. The age therefore, of which we speak, was 
^^g., necessarily an age of theological bitterness, incon- 
sistency, and strife. The weaker party was the 
prey of the stronger, and the conscientious secta- 
ry, like Noah's dove, found no rest for the sole of 
his foot. 



SECTION V. 

from the death of Mr. Norton to that of Mr. Wilson, including 
the years 1664, 1665, 1666, 1667'. 

At the age of seventy-six, Mr. Wilson was once sect, v 
more left alone with the care of the church. It jgg^ 
could not be expected, that he should now be 
able to make very vigorous exertions towards 
the increase and prosperity of the flock ; yet 
there appears to have been no diminution of zeal 
for the cause of religion, either in the pastor or 
the members. From the beginning of 1664 to 
the close of 1667, eighty-three persons, forty-nine 
of whom were females, adjoined themselves to 
the church. In the same space of time, two hun- 
dred and twenty-four children were baptized, one 
hundred and fourteen of whom were females. 

The records appear to have been correctly .gg^ 
made, and good order maintained in the church. 

But the period was come, in which the earthly 
labours of the pious Wilson were to be exchang- 
cd for rest in the mansions of heaven . 

This virtuous and amiable man was born at 
Windsor, England, in 1588, and was son of Rev. 
Dr. Wilson, prebendary of St, Paul's, London. 



102 WILSON. 

SECT.v. He was educated at Eton college, under Udal 
jggg and Lcingley. After a residence of four years, he 
was removed to Cambridge, in the 15th year of 
his age, and admitted into Kmg's college in 
1602. Becoming acquainted m rhis place with a 
number of pious young men, he occubiorwhy asso- 
ciated with them in his chamber for prayer and 
the reading of theological books. Having receiv- 
ed ordination from a bishop, he was for some 
time minister of Sudbury, county of Suffolk, 
where he was silenced for nonconformity. His 
father used every imaginable means to reclaim 
him, but to no purpose. He then advised him to 
enter upon the study of law. This advice young 
Wilson obeyed, during two or three years ; but 
his heart was still bent on being a minister of re- 
ligion. He was permitted to proceed for master 
of arts ; but the degree was not without difficulty 
to be obtained, except by subscribing articles, to 
which he was conscientiously opposed. He 
however refused to subscribe, whatever the refu- 
sal might cost him. He adopted a most solemn 
resolution to go to the ends of the earth, if he 
might thence enjoy liberty of conscience and a 
pure worship. He kneeled at the deathbed of 
his father for a blessing, which he obtained. 

He was employed, as a chaplain in families of 
rank and opulence, where, with a boldness hon- 
ourable to his profession, he reproved the profane 
and censured the levity of the ga;^ and irreligious. 
Though persecuted and silenced, yet he repeated 



WILSON. 103 

ly obtained a liberty of preaching, through the in- sect, y 
tercession of friends, and his own perseverance. leez" 

Such a precarious freedom however was little 
better, than continual bondage. He resolved up- 
on travelling to a country, which, if it possessed 
fewer means of knowledge and elegant subsist- 
ence, afforded the finest field for the cultivation of 
unfettered religion. 

He came hither in the same company with 
governour Winthrop and the first settlers of Mas- 
sachusetts. In 1631, he went to Eng]?nd for his 
wife, whom he there left the preceding year. 
He gave it in charge to governour Winthrop and 
elder Nowell to prophesy and exhort in the 
church, during his absence. Mr. Eliot, the apos- 
tle however, landing about the time of Mr. Wil- 
son's departure, officiated in his stead. 

Mr. Wilson returned with his family, in 1632. 
In 1634 he again crossed the Atlantick, and, after 
visiting Ireland and several parts of England, 
came back, the following year, to America, which 
he thenceforth made his perpetual residence. He 
here fulfilled, during thirty -seven years, the office 
of pastor ; three years before Mr. Cotton ; nine- 
teen years in his company ; seven years with 
Mr. Norton ; and four years after him. 

He was more beloved for his humility, benev- 
olence, and sweetness of temper, than admired for 
his talents, as a preacher, although these, ip his 
younger days, were nowise contemptible. He 
was strong in fai<"h, j^et svronger in love. In 
many instances he seemed to attain to a full assu- 



104 WILSON. 

SECT. V ranee of faith ; and 'the verity of his predictions 



T^ was proverbial. AVhen Mr. Norton was called to 
leave Ipswich, to be a successour to Mr. Cotton, 
the colleague of Mr. Norton, Mr. Rogers oppo- 
sed the measure. Some persons in company 
with the latter remarked, that Mr. Wilson by his 
argument, or rhetorick, or both, would effect his 
purpose. Mr. Rogers replied, that he was more 
afraid of his faith, than of his arguments. This 
reputation for an unwavering faith and a prophet, 
ick spirit brought many of his friends to his dying 
bed, with a request, that he would designate the 
sins of the times, which, in his opinion, were the 
most heinous, and which, in their operation, \vould 
probably operate most ruinously on the country. 
He gave his opinion freely, saying, that God 
would judge the people for their rebellious, self- 
willed spirit, for their contempt of civil and ec- 
clesiastical rulers, and for their luxury and sloth. 
Here perhaps we shall do well to recollect, that 
his mind was greatly enfeebled by age and dis- 
ease. With all his zeal for religion and benevo- 
lence for mankind, he had no sympathy with the 
sectary. Like Norton, Dudley, and others, he 
was for compelling the imiformity of irregular 
christians with other arguments, than such, as 
were furnished by reason and revelation. Go 
not after those enthusiasts, said he, for, whatever 
they may pretend, they will rob you of ordinan- 
ces, rob you of your souls, rob you of your God. 
He indulged a poetical vein in writing ana- 
grams on his friends, in which he always contriv- 



WILSON. 10; 

cd to convey some moral and religious instruc- si:ct. v 
tion. In reference to these, which were not al- iqqy~ 
ways exact, and to liis remarkable hospitiility, it 
was said by the witty author of the Sinjple Cob- 
bler of Agawam, that the anagram of John Wilson 
was, " I pray come in, you are heartily welcome." 
In all the offices of friendship and good neigh- 
bourhood he seems to have been a model of 
christian charity, being full of compassion to the 
distressed, of advice to the friendless, and of con- 
solation to the aged. To designs and deeds of 
beneficence his heart and his purse were always 
open. He loved the house and worship of God, 
and was coacerned for the spiritual improvement, 
not only of his own congregation, but of the 
neighbouring churches. He was seen assisting at 
their lectures as long, as he was able to preach ; 
and, after age had palsied his head and his hands, 
his heart still glowed with the warmth of youth, 
and he was, conversant among his friends, coun- 
selling them to adhere firmly to the good profes- 
sion of their faith, and in the language of St. 
John exhorting them, " Little children love one 
another." 

His humility shone brightly to the last. On 
his dying bed he was surrounded by many of the 
congregation, who desired to witness the closing 
scene of the good man's life, and to see with 
what calmness so excellent a christian would die. 
He told them, that he should soon go to be with 
his departed friends in heaven. Yet he added, I 





106 WILSON. 

SECT. V. have been an unprofitable servant. The Lord be 
merciful to me a sinner ! He died, 7 Aug. 1667, 
in the seventy-ninth year of his age. 

Mr. W. preached his last thursday lecture, 
16 Nov. 1665, which was taken in short hand 
by a hearer, and afterwards published. He also 
published a tract in London, entitled Helps to 
Faith. 



SECTION VI. 

From the death of Mr. Wilson to the settlement of Messieurs 
Davenport and Allen, embracing the year 1668. 

It may not here be amiss to glance at the condi- sect, vi 
tion of the churches in general. The morals of legg. 
the people,* it was thought, had lost something of 
the purity, which marked the fathers of Neweng- 
land. This declension from primitive holiness 
was attributed partly to a disrespect for synodical 
decrees, and partly to the inattention of the clergy 
to their pastoral duties. The governour and 
council therefore, in 1668, wrote a serious and 
affectionate letter, addressing it t;o each minister 
in the colony. It called upon the teachers of re- 
ligion in a solemn manner to guard against the 
slumbers of sloth, and renew their zeal for the 
spiritual improvement of the souls committed to 
their watch, and for the general promotion of 
piety in the land. The measure was well receiv- 
ed, and attended with a beneficial effect. f More 
diligence was observed by pastors in their cate- 
chetical instructions ; and a disposition was mani- 
fested to print and circulate books on practical 
piety. 

* Neal i. 368. f Holmes' Ann. i. 401. 



108 VAC A XT. 

SECT. VI. It was ill tliis year, and with a view to the rc- 
1558 rival and diffusion of a spirit of piety, that an at- 
tempt \vas made to print an edition of Thomas a 
Kempis. The design however failed, througli 
an apprehension in the general court, that the 
book, being written by a papist, might excite a 
reli.sh for popish principles. Capt. Daniel Gookin 
and Rev. Jonathan Mitchcl, who were licensers of 
the press, were accordingly ordered by the court 
to stop the progress of the work. What would 
be thought, at this day, of a legislature, which 
should forbid the publication of any one book of 
any one sect of christians '? Indeed a like degree 
of rigour, at the same point of time, was not exer- 
cised in the parent country. But it had grown 
customary with men, who had fled the tyranny of 
the lord bishops to practise the tyranny of the 
lord brethren.* Intolerance was the order of the 
day ; and the government of each individual 
church was as eagle eyed in discovering heresy, 
and sometimes as cruel in punishing it, as the 
Spanish inquisition. 

This truth was disgracefully manifest, about 
this period, in the suft'erings of the baptists. At 
the very moment, when congregationalists were 
writhing beneath the lashes of persecution in 
England, they seemed determined in this country 
to retaliate vengeance on dissenters from them. 
This wicked conduct was neither unnoticed nor 
unreproved.f A letter was sent from London to 

* Clialmers i. 39^, t Neal i. 3~1. 



VACANT. 109 

the governour of Massachusetts, signed by Drs. skct. vi. 
Goodwin and Owen, Messrs. Nye and Caryl, i66s 
and nine other ministers, entreating him to use 
his authority for releasing the baptists from pris- 
on, and rescuing them from the power of sangui- 
nary laws. But this letter, though penned with 
moderation and gentleness, and containing the 
most touching appeals to the heart, made no im- 
pression on the congregationylists of Massachu- 
setts. The baptists still groaned in prisons. 
The most unrighteous laws stared them in the 
face ; and the most villanous conduct was se- 
cretly practised to their mischief. 

This treatment of the baptists was compari- 
tively trivial to what the poor quakers endured. 
They were subjects of reproach, scorn, buff'etting, 
scourges, torture, and death. They were strip- 
ped of the clothes, they wore, and robbed of the 
beds, whereon they lay. The vessels, in which 
they ate, wgyg forced from them, and their food 
itself reduced almost to nothing. If any thing in 
extenuation of this persecuting spirit may be al- 
leged, it is the exceedingly irregular and extrava- 
gant behaviour of the sectaries, who kept no 
terms with decency, and strangely imagined, they 
were doing God service by violating the rules of 
good manners. 

The church was, for the first time, vacant ; and 
the desk was supplied by preachers, whom cir- 
cumstances threw in the way. 

Six men and four women were,this year, admit- 
ted to the church, and three male and two female 
children baptized. 



no VACANT. 

SECT. VI. ^" the death of Mr. Wilson, the church seem 
jggg to have had no idea of supplying his place by a 
young man, or a man, who had not been educa- 
. ted in -England. 

Rev. John Davenport of Newhaven, had for- 
merly exercised his talents in this church, and 
therefore was not wholly unknown to several of 
the members. Fame moreover had ever distin- 
guished him among the preachers of this country. 
He was now seventy years old. At first view, 
therefore, he would hardly relinquish, at such an 
age, a place, of which he might be called the 
planter and patriarch. Those however, who 
knew all the circumstances of his situation, knew, 
that he was displeased with the union of Newha- 
ven and Connecticut colonies, and had always 
manifested a particular attachment to the metropo- 
lis of Massachusetts. He was accordingly invi- 
ted, and he accepted the invitation. Because of 
his advanced age however, it was thought expe- 
dient to unite with him in the care of the church 

« Rev. James Allen. The latter gentleman had 

been ejected by the Bartholomew act from his 
living in England, and, for four years, had been a 
member of First Church. These two gentlemen 
were installed together, as copastors of the church, 
on the ninth of December, 1668. 



SECTION VII. 

From tbe settlement of Messrs. Davenport and Allen to the death 
of the former and the installation of Air. Oxenbridge. Including 
the years 1669, 1670. 

Phe removal of Mr. Davenport was a remark- ^^^ ^^^ 

able event, not only in the history of this church, 

but in the ecclesiastical history of Massachusetts.* 
It will be recollected, that, in 1662, a synod was 
holden in Boston, which decreed, that persons, 
owning the covenant, might have their children 
baptized, although they did not observe the 
Lord's-supper. The result of this synod Mr. 
Wilson had subscribed ; and a neglect to observe 
it, or a disposition to oppugn it, he considered, in 
his last days, as one of the lamentable errouis of 
the times. Whether he had particular reference 
to Mr. Da\ enport, in uttering this lamentation, 
cannot now be known. Certain it is, that Mr. 
Davenport was opposed to ihis result, vvlicn it 
passed, and published his opinion against it after- 
wards. But, notwithstanding [his church r greed 
with their late pastor respecting the dcteimina- 
tions of the synod, and were thereiore widely 

* Trum. i. 484. 



DAVEXPOUT. ALLEX. 



Siyj. vii. asunder from Mr. D. yet they saw fit to elect 
1G69. hiiTj, and he to obey their summons. The union 
ho '.V ever was not effected without difficuhy. 
There were, at that time, two parties in First 
Church, one of which strongly opposed the 
measure,* both on account of the age of the can- 
didate, and the rigidity of his sentiments. Mr. 
D. had also to surmount a high bar to his 
removal in the affection of his own church, and 
in their determination to retain him. In this 
situation of affairs, it was not surprising, that 
Mr. D's installation should kindle the flames of 
ecclesiastical contention. Nor was the evil con- 
fined to a small district. Mr. Davenport had 
been considered, as the head of a party more 
strictly calvinian, than the body of the colonists. 
He had also personal friends, and so had the par- 
ty in First Church, who opposed him. 

A part of First Church therefore, to the num- 
ber of , formed a society, which made the 
third con2'res:ation in Boston. Seventeen minis- 
ters publickly testified their disapprobation of the 
conduct of the majority of First Church, and es- 
pecially of its three officers, Messrs. Davenport 
and Allen, and elder Penn. It was said, on the 
part of the ministers, that the whole truth respect- 
ing Mr. D's dismission was never told them ; 
that parts only of letters were read, which ought 
to have been fully exposed ; and that the publick 
were not ingenuously dealt with upon the sub- 
ject. It was denied by Mr. D. and his friends, 



* Hutch, i. 247. 



DAVENPOrtT. ALI.KN. 113 

tliat the letters concealed would have been evi- ^.ec y^ 
dence, that the church at Newhaven refused a dis- 777Z~~ 

' 11)09 

missal to her pastor ; but only have shown an un- 
willingness to make it her immediate act.* A de- 
gree of blame attached to both sides. On one 
side more simplicity and uprightness of conduct 
was to have been expected ; and those of the 
other were too curious and meddlesome. The 
event was not foi'tunatc for any body. Mr. D. 
shortly died ; Newhaven church became divided, 
and long remained destitute of a pastor ; and 
First Church, besides losing a respectable portion 
of her members, was engaged, for fourteen years, 
in a controversy with the New, or Third church. 
This quarrel is said to have been terminated, in 
consequence of a danger, which happened to both 
churches, through an attempt to make an episco- 
pal establishment in the town. From this mo- 
ment they exerted their joint efforts to oppose the 
missionaries of the English bishops. At first 
however, the contention was so sharp, that First 
Church refused to join in acts of communion 
with the Third ; and lines, and even imprisonments 
were, in some instances, the result of a fiery and 
misdirected zeal.f Mr. Bellingham was now 
governour ; and, being warmly opposed to the 
seceders, he called the council together with a 
view of quashing the design, on the presumption, 
that the erection of a new edifice would militate 
with the publick safety. To be sure, the forming 

* Hutch, i. 248. + Back. i. 388. 



114 DAVENPORT. ALLEN. . 

SEC. \ II. oi ii i'*-'vv church, at that period, was a design of 
^j vaster niag-nitude,than at the present day ; for near- 
ly the whole country were enlisted on one side or 
the other of this unpleasant warfare. But the 
council were not equally apprehensive with his 
excellency of ensuing mischief. The general 
court at length interfered in favour of First 
Church, and raised a committee to inquire into 
those prevailing evils, which were the probable 
cause of God's displeasure towards our land. *" 
The following is part of their report. " Declen- 
sion from the primitive foundation work ; inno- 
vation in doctrine and worship, opinion and prac- 
tice ; an invasion of the rights, liberties, and 
privileges of churches ; a usurpation of a lordly 
prelatical power over God's heritage ; a subver- 
sion of gospel order ; and all this with a danger- 
ous tendency to the utter devastation of these 
churches ; turning the pleasant gardens of Christ 
into a wilderness ; and the inevitable and total ex- 
tirpation of the principles and pillars of the con- 
gregational way ; these are the leaven, the cor- 
rupting gangrene, the infecting spreading plague, 
the provoking image of jealousy set up before 
the Lord, the accursed thing, which hath provoked 
divine wrath, and doth further threaten destruc- 
tion." One seems at a loss, on whom to fix this 
general invective. It was well understood, at that 
day, to be aimed at the Third Church, and the 
ministers consenting to its organization. 

* Hutch, i. 249. 



DAVENPOllT. ALl.EN. IJ5 

The bitter pill contained in the report produced sec. vii. 
retchings in the stomach and burnings in the "^^ 
heart. At its next session, the general court was 
addressed by a portion of the clergy too respecta- 
ble to be neglected, and in language too solemn 
and pathetick to be silenced. The deputies were 
now delicately reminded of the services of the 
clergy, in the early settlement of the country ; and 
of the happy union, that subsisted between Moses 
and Aaron, of whom it was said, that, if the for- 
mer conducted the people, the latter transported 
the ark of the covenant. They were assured of 
the loyalty of the ministers ; of their inflexible 
regard to the principles of Congregationalism ; 
and of their hatred of disorder and licentiousness. 
The ministers thought it necessary thus to vindi- 
cate themselves from the charge of innovation 
and apostasy, which had been implied, if not ex- 
pressed, in the abovementioned report. They in- 
sinuated, if they did not feel, that they had suffer- 
ed from the rage of a party, who had endeavoured 
to widen, instead of healing, the breach between 
First and Third Church, and to misrepresent and 
disguise the business in the view of the commu- 
nity. They hoped, an apology would be readily 
found for their conduct, if they had erred ; and, if 
they had been wronged, that their wrongs would 
be redressed. They concluded with a declaration 
of the purity of their intentions, and of their wish 
to resist, if possible, the antiministerial spirit, 
which was rising and spreading in the country, 
and which, through the sides of the clergy, was 
wounding the cause of religion. 



116 DAVENri'oirr. allf.n. 

SKC. vlL This address made a serious and salutary Im- 
j^^^ pression on the court. They saw the necessity 
of giving it a kind and respectful answer. Hav- 
ing- therefore apologized for the imprudent 
warmth, that might have actuated their body, the 
preceding year, they proceed to express their 
wishes for conciliation, equity, and peace. They 
decreed, that all papers referring to the late un- 
pleasant controversy should be accounted useless ; 
and that no odium ought to rest upon those min- 
isters, who had been instrumental in establishing 
the Third Church. In doing this, however, 
care ^vas taken to secure the authority of the 
magistrates ; and due caution was administered 
against questioning the rectitude of legislative 
proceedings. 

It will hence be seen, what sort of connexion 
subsisted between the civil and ecclesiastical or- 
ders of the state. Various causes operated, at 
times, to diminish the influence of the christian 
minister. As new settlements were made, par- 
ishes were multiplied. The means of subsistence 
and of knowledge to the pastors of these little 
flocks were necessarily narrow ; and they not in- 
frequently complained, that they prophesied in 
sackcloth. Want of knowledge and of wealth 
was consequently want of power. Yet, with all 
tlicir poverty and the disadvantages of their situa- 
tion, they possessed their full share of talents and 
virtue, and were therefore not to be contemned 
nor neglected. They remembered the views, 
which planted New cngland ; and, if they had not 



DAYEXPORT. ALLEN. 1 1 7 

the learning, they were still animated with the sec. vn. 
spirit, of their predecessors. Though the civil- ^^^^ 
ians of that day acknowledged and revered their 
piety, yet they provided with a jealous eye against 
the increase of hierarchical rule. So that the 
churches, notwithstanding their professions and 
boast of independency, were actually under a 
kind of political control ; and, on the contrary, 
through the influence of the clergy, magistrates, 
who were annually elected, were occasionally 
displaced, when they were thought to have in- 
fringed against the rights of the church. 

The most acrimonious and lasting dispute, 
which took place between First Church and any 
of its sisters, on the subject of Mr. Davenport's 
removal, was that between this and the church at 
Dedham. Letters are now preserved in First 
Church records, which mark the heat of the ec- 
clesiastical thermometer,at that disputatious period. 

The majority of First Church adhered steadilv 
to their choice of Mr. D. and their attachment to 
his person. In this agitated condition of things, it 
was not to be expected, that the church would re- 
ceive large accessions. In 1669, two men only 
and six women were received, as members. 
Twenty male and nineteen female infants, in that 
year, were baptized. But, after Mr. Oxenbridge j^^^ 
was associated in the pastoral care, in the follow- 
ing year, fifty-four persons, thirty-five of whom 
were women, seated themselves at the Lord's table. 
In that year also, thirty-one male and twenty 
eight female children were baptized. 



1 I S DAVENPORT. ALLEN. 

SEC. VII. In the ])receding year, such was the disturbed 
TTI" condition of the church, that offences were fre- 
quently happening, and yet the ancient vigour of 
administration was impaired. The practice 
however continued, of excommunicating mem- 
bers for almost all sorts of crimes, and of restoring 
them to communion, upon manifestations of re- 
pentance. 

On 12 Feb. 1669, " Edward Ransford and 
Jacob Eliot were dismissed from the office of 
deacons for setting their hands, with other breth- 
ren, to desire their dismission from the church ; 
because the church had chosen Mr. Davenport 
for their pastor."* 

On 29 March, 1670, " at a meeting called 
about our dissenting brethren, the question, 
whether the church see light from the word of 
God to dismiss our dissenting brethren, that desire 
it, was answered in the negative unanimously.* 

" At a general meeting of the church, on 16 
August, 1669, it was voted by the church, that 
our honoured magistrates do draw up instructions 
for capt. Clarke to N. Haven, that they might 
declare the owning of the letter sent from them to 
this church to be a true dismission for Mr. Dav- 
enport." 

e e 

" At a meeting of y church : on y 20 : of au- 

e t r 

gust : 69 It was voted by y church y maj 

11 eh r 

gen y elders w capt dark m Stoddard 

* First Church Records, p. 01. 



1670. 



DAVENPORT. ALEX. Uy 

and m Cooke do draw up a letter in answer to y ' 
letter sent from Dedhani church, enquiring after 

the proceeding of y church about a letter or let- 

e 

ters from y church of N. Haven to this church, 
and to sign it in the name of the church." 

" On 25 Aug. 1669, the church met to hear 
the letter read, that was sent to Dedham, and they 
did unanimously concur with it, as their own 
mind." 

At a church meeting, on 9 Oct. 1699, " upon 
hearing the letters read from N. Haven in answer 
to a letter of two of the elders to them ; it was 
voted unanimously, that the church doth stand to 
the former vote and judgment, in the case of the 
elders, about the extracting the sense of the let- 
ters dismissive." 

These extracts from the records of the church 
sufficiently show, that she must have been much 
agitated respecting the affair of Mr. Davenport's 
removal, and the publick opinion concerning that 
measure. 

The congregation does not appear to have been 
insensible to the object of religious association. 
The following vote indicates a laudable concern 
for the arrowth of vital relip-ion. 

" At a publick church meeting, on the 13th of 
the 10th mo. 1669, it was agreed on and concluded 
by a unanimous vote, that the elders should go 
from house to house to visit the families, and see 
how they are insti acted in the grounds of reli- 
srion." 



t2d DAVENPORT. ALLEN, 

SEC.viT. Mr. Davenport died suddenly, on the 11th, ac- 
iGTQ. cording to First Church records, and according 
to Hutchinson and others, on 15 March, 1670. 
Although his career in Boston was short and 
troublous, it had been long and glorious in Nevv- 
england. Few men were better qualified for 
planting the gospel in a new world ; and seldom 
has any man made a happier use of his natural 
and moral energies. This remark ought to be 
verified by a biographical sketch of the father of 
Newhaven. 

Rev. John Davenport was born at Coventry, 
England, in 1597. He was sent to Merton 
college, in 1613, whence, a^ter two years, he 
was removed to Magdalen hall, which he left 
without a degree. By his incessant and success- 
ful application he became one of the first of schol- 
ars, and by his gravity, warmth, and case of elo- 
cution, one of the most popular of preachers. 
He early imbibed the sentiments of puritans, and 
became a minister to a congregation of them in 
Colman street, London. Such was the spirit of 
those times, that he was obliged to resign his 
pastoral charge. In 1633, he retired into Hol- 
land, where he became united with a Mr. Paget, 
whom he opposed, on account of his administer- 
ing baptism to children indiscriminately. A 
controversy ensued, which rendered his situation 
uncomfortable, and he returned to London. It 
seems, he had formed an acquaintance with Mr. 
Cotton, previously to his sailing for this country, 
and now enjoyed the benefit of his correspond^ 



DAVENPORT. ALLEN. 12; 

eiice. By the favourable representation, he re- sec. Air 
ceived of America, he was led to form a conncx- 7Z^ 
ion with Messrs. Eaton, Hopkins, and other re- 
spectable characters, for the purpose of settling in 
a land so propitious to civil and religious liberty. 
They arrived, in 1637, when the antinomian con- 
troversy was beginning to rage, in Avhich Mr. 
D. took a decided and useful part. Not finding 
sufficient room for themselves and their friends 
in Massachusetts, they made a large purchase 
between the Connecticut and Hudson rivers, and 
founded the city of Newhaven, of which Mr. 
Davenport became the minister. 

With the bold, enterprising spirit of a reform- 
er he devoted his time, money, and strength to 
the acquisition and security of what he believed 
to be the right of the citizen and the christian. 
He had an idea, that a reformation was never car- 
ried any further, than by primitive reformers. An 
emigration into this country therefore, in his 
opinion, afforded the fairest opportunity for the pu- 
ritans to effectuate their pious and liberal designs. 

No man was ever more scrupulously careful 
in guarding the doors of the church, and none 
more rigid in his notions of church discipline. 
Yet he lived to see and lament, that, with all his 
caution, the hypocritical and vicious would some» 
times find their way to the baptismal font, and 
the communion board. He refused, for example, 
to baptize children, unless he had evidence, that 
they were born of christian parents, who regu- 
larly walked in all the ordinances of the gospel 



\22 DAVENroRT. ALLEX. 

SE(;. Ml. In tlic early part of life, he was continually prcach- 
, (;,,, ' hv^ and publishing af^ainst what he called promis- 
cuous baptism, and he thought, that God by a 
pailicular providence called him into Holland, 
that he might bear witness against it in a country, 
where it was generally prevalent. His rigour in 
this respect caused him both labour and vexa- 
tion. For even in those days, there were chris- 
tians, calling themselves orthodox and puritan, 
who differed concerning what were the requisite 
qualifications for the initiatory seal. Mr. Cotton 
said, that a baptismal creed should contain three 
articles. Mr. Norton was content, that it should 
contain only one article ; and others were willing, 
that baptism should be given to children, whose 
parents made no profession of faith, except what 
was implied in attending the ordinance. These 
last contended, that bringing one's child to be 
baptized in the name of Jesus Christ is in very 
deed one of the most solemn modes of declaring 
a belief in the gospel, and entering into covenant 
with God. 

In sentiment with Mr. Cotton respecting the 
civil as well, as religious polity of the bible, he 
endeavoured a system of order, which should 
nearly correspond with the hebrew institutes and 
the usages of the primitive christians. The 
scheme undoubtedly originated in the best inten- 
tions of the heart ; but, in our day, it can hardly be 
believed, that ethicks, good sense, and knowledge 
of mankind, such as Cotton and Davenport pos- 
sessed, should conceive it practicable. 



DAVENPORT. ALLEN. 123 

He possessed a large share of personal cour- sec. ml 
age as well, as a literary and religious heroism. ^^Z^ 
His intrepidity saved king Charles's judges,*' who 
fled to Newhaven, in 1661, and who were hidden 
in his house, whilst he preached in publick be- 
fore the pursuers a sermon from the following 
words. " Take counsel ; execute judgment ; 
make thy shadow, as the night in the midst of the 
noonday ; hide the outcasts ; bewray not him, 
that wandereth. Let mine outcasts dwell with 
thee. Moab be thou a covert to them from the 
face of the spoiler, "f 

In private life Mr. Davenport was beneficent, 
exemplary, amiable ; much practising, what he 
constantly recommended, ejaculatory prayers. On 
receiving favours, he would resolve to increase 
his self-examination and watchfulness ; and he 
was wont to repay the ill usage, he met with from 
enemies, by renewed efforts of kindness to his 
friends. His piety, prudence, and firmness 
were the subject of general commendation. 

As a scholar, Mr. Davenport was always placed 
in the first rank. His judgment was profound ; 
and his excursive fancy was guided by a correct 
taste. Such was the opinion of the Westminster 
divines of his abilities, that he was hivited to 
a seat in their synod. 

He was minister of Newhaven, nearly thirty, 
and of First Church, not quite two years. He 
died of an apoplexy, in the 73d year of his age, 
on 15 March, 1670. His portrait is in the mu- 

* Stiles's Life of the Judges. f Isai. xvi. 3, 4. 



I2i DAVENPORT. ALLEN. 

SEC.vir. seiim of Yale college. He was author of the 
i670~' folio'^^iiig publications. 

1. Sermon on 2 Sam. i. 18. 1629. 

2. Letter to the Dutch Classis. 1634. 

3. Instructions to the elders of the English Church. 1634. 

4. Report of some proceedings against John Paget, &c, 

1634. 

5. Allegations of scripture against baptizing certain in- 

fants. 1634. 

6. Protestation about the publication of his writings. 

1634. " 

7. Apologetical Reply to answer of W. Best. 1636. 

8. Discourse about civil government in new plantations. 

1642. 

9. Profession of his faith at admission, &c. 1642. 

10. Knowledge of Christ, in regard to types, See. 165^. 

11. Messiah come. Sermon. 1653. 

18. Saints' Anchor hold in storms, &c. 1661. 

13. Election Sermon, 1669. 

14. God's call to his people, Sec. two fast sermons. 1670. 

15. Power of congregational churches, 8cc. (posthumous.) 

1672. 
He also wrote a latin letter to the famous Duroeus, which 
the rest of the ministers of Newhaven colony subscri- 
bed. He moreover left behind him an exposition on 
the Canticles in a hundred sheets of small hand wri- 
ting, which never was published. 



SECTION VIII. 

From the settlement of Mr. Oxenbridge, 1671, to his deatli, 1674, 

IVTr. OxenbridQ-e and his wife had been admit- 

SEC vni. 
ted members of First Church,on 20 March, 1670, 

and, on the 10th of the month following, he was ^^'"'" 
unanimously chosen pastor. Whether any for- 
mality was observed in his induction into office 
does not appear. No memorandum of Mr. Dav- 
enport's death is to be found in the records, yet 
the slightest irregularity in any of the members is 
carefully registered. 

This is evident, that Mr. Oxenbridge was a 
popular preacher, and that his talents excited 
a lively attention to religion in the members 
of the congregation. During his four years' 
labour in the church, eighty-one persons, fif- 
ty-four of whom were females, were admitted 
to communion. In the same period, ninety-one 
boys and ninety girls were baptized. 

On 10 March, 1672, there was a publick con- 
tribution made by the congregation for the use of 1672. 
the college at Cambridge, at the motion of the 
council, and beside the publick, there was a pri- 
vate subscription, to which many subscribed, and 
a like subscription was circulated in the country. 



126 ALLEN. OXENBRIDGE 



16; 



SRC. vrn. The baptists were still persecuted in the colony ; 
' but Allen and Oxenbridge have the merit of giv- 
ing no countenance to a most unchristian practice. 
Rev. John Oxenbridge was born in Daventry, 
Northamptonshire, England, 30 January, 1609,and 
educated at Oxford, where he was some time a 
tutor. Becoming a preacher, in 1633, he went 
to Bermuda, and assumed the care of a church. 
He returned to England, about the year 1642, and 
was pastor of a church in Beverly. Afterwards 
he became fellow of Eton college. Ejected 
from his living, in 1662, he travelled to Surrinam ; 
thence to Barbadoes ; and thence, in 1669, to 
Nc wengland. He is reckoned by the historians 
of Boston among the most elegant writers as well, 
as eloquent preachers of his time. Like his 
great and good piedecessors, he was sincerely at- 
tached to the congregational interest ; and the 
piety, which he cherished at heart, exhibited itself 
in his habitual conversation. As he was preach- 
ing the thursday lecture, 23 December, he was ta- 
ken suddenly ill, forced to break off his discourse, 
and carried home, where he languished, till the 
28th, when he died. He was buried, on 3 1 st, with 
great solemnity.* 

Mr. Oxenbridge was author of the following 
publications. 

1. Double watchword. 1661. 

2. Propositions of propas^ating the gospel in Guiana. 

3. Election Sermon, 1671. 

4. Seasonable seeking of God. 

* First Church records, p. 37. 



1674.: 



SECTION IX. 

From the death of Mr. Oxenbridj^e, 1 674, to the settlement of Mv. 
Wadsworth, 16»J6. 

During ten years, the congregation was ""^^^ g^cT ix 

the sole care of Mr. Allen. 

In the year 1679, there was a synod called by ^ ^^ 
the general court, under an apprehension, that 
the sins of the land loudly cried for the vengeance 
of heaven. The aspect of publick afiairs was in- 
deed portentous ; yet there seem not to have 
been any uncommon marks of national degenera- 
cy. The ministers however obeyed the sum- 
mons of the civil authority, and placed at the head 
of their body Mr. John Sherman and Mr. Urian 
Oakes. The first question, to which their atten- 
tion was called, was, " What are the sins, which 
have provoked the divine anger ?" The second, 
" What are the means of icmovinj>; it ?" The 
synod resulted, and communicated their result to 
the general court. It pointed out the sins of the 
times, and depicted in glowing colours the ca- 
lamities of the country.* In most churches the 
covenant was renewed, and in every church some 

* Mather. Hutchinson. 



128 ALLEN. 

SECT. IX. notice was taken of the Reforming Synod, and of 
^"^I^ the measures, it recommended, for reviving the 
power and spirit of religion. 

Some indeed questioned the sincerity of the 
leading men in the country, who were instru- 
mental in convoking the synod. The gay and 
licentious court of Charles II. could hardly be- 
lieve, that there were men of piety enough in 
Newengland, who would take the pains, which 
were there taken, to promote the practice of 
sound morality.* 

First Church also did not see the propriety of 

5Au"- calling this synod. Yet its leading members 
could not be accused of being inimical to the in- 
terests of truth and religion. On 5 August, the 
following vote was passed by the church. 

" Voted, upon an order of the general court, to 
send elders and messengers to a synod to meet, 
the 24th day in September. Though we do not 
see liffht for the callinsr of a svnod at this time ; 
yet, there being one called, that what good there 
is or may be encouraged, and evil prevented, by 
our testimony, we are willing to send our mes- 
sengers to it ; though, whatever is there deter- 
mined, we look upon and judge to be no farther 
binding to us, than the light of God's words is 
thereby cleared to our consciences."! 

In this vote is manifest the spirit of liberty, 
which prevailed, in those days, and which now an- 
imates a large majority of the churches in this 
commonwealth. The members of First Church 
m particular were uniformly careful to guard the 

* Holmes. f First Cliurch records, p. 39. 



ALLEN. ■ 129 

freedom of the brethren against the encroach- sect. ix. 
ments of the civil authority. This as.sertion will 1679 
be further evident by the subsequent vote, which 
was passed on the same occasion. 

'' Voted by this church, 5 Aug. upon an order 
and advice of the magistrates, that all the elders 
of tills town might jointly carry on the 5th day 
lecture." 

" In answer to the motion of the honoured 
miigistrates about the lecture ; though, as an in- 
junclion, we cannot concur with it, but do hum- 
bi}' bear our witness against it, as apprehending 
it tejidinsr to the infrin^xement of church libertv ; 
yet, if the Lord incline the hearts of the other 
teaching oificers of this town to accept the desire 
of our officers lo give their assistance with those 
of this church, who shall be desired to carry on 
their fifth day lecture, we are \villing to accept 
their help therein."* 

Sixty-four persons were admitted tocommunion, 
in this decade of years, thirty- nine of whom were 
females. During the same period, seventy male 
and seventy-seven female children were baptized. 

By recurring to the controversy existing in 
the churches, consequent upon the installation of 
Mr. Davenport, it will be seen, that no harmony 
now subsisted between the First and Third 
Ciiurches. Such a state of ecclesiastical aliena- 
tion, obviously inimical to the cause of religion, 
was secretly lamented by the lovers of peace in 
both societies. It is to the honour of First 

* Fii-.st Church records, p. 40. 



1.30 ALLCN. 

SECT. IX. Church, to whichever party it properly apper- 
1682. tained, that slie was prior in her conciliatory 
overtures. The foUowino: extracts, which are 
copied exactly from her records, will show the 
formal, cautious, yet frank and generous manner, 
in which the reconciliation was besfun and com- 
plcted. 

" At a meeting of the First Church in Boston, 
Apr. 23, 1682." 

" A motion to the South Church." 

" Question. Whether you be willing, keep- 
ing the rule in its intireness, and not revoking 
your testimony thereto, with that rule of church 
order, which we have proposed assent unto, and 
is published, as the judgment of the churches of 
Newengland platform of discipline, Chapt. 13th 
throughout, to forgive and forget all offences, as 
respecting ourselves, that, we judge, have justly 
been taken at our dissenting brethren ? 

" Supposing this pass in the Old Church. 

" Question. Will it not be expedient, that it 
be lovingly presented to the dissenting brethren, 
and tliat society, by a meet person or persons, 
and that they be desired to signify by writing 
their approbation of that rule, and judging any 
deviation from it to be irregular, and, if the re- 
turn be acceptable, that it will be recorded by 
both, in memory of an happy issue of that uncom- 
fortable and long breach, and the beginning of 
our desired peace, which the Lord grant. Amen." 
" Voted in the affirmative together." 



ALLEN. 1 3 1 

" Letter from the Third Church in Boston in sect. ix. 



return to the above motion." i682. 

" Worshipful, reverend, and beloved." 
" As we cannot but with grief acknowledge 
the great evil, that there is in divisions from the 
sad experience, which we have had of the dange- 
rous influence, which the distance betwixt you 
and us hath had in this land, so we desire hearti- 
ly to acknowledge the goodness of God in ac- 
cording your hearts to look towards a pacifica- 
tion, and with thankfulness to adopt, at your 
hands, the kind tender of reconciliation made un- 
to us, to the furthering whereof God forbid that 
wc should wilfully put any obstruction ; we rather 
desire to put all the hands we have to the accept- 
ing of it ; as being sensible of the truth of what 
is intimated, 2 Sam. ii. 26. That " if the sword 
devour forever, it will be bitterness in the end." 

" As for the condition of accommodation, 
which hath been presented to us from yourselves 
by the worshipful Samuel Howell, esq. and the 
Reverend Mr. Allen, we are fully and freely ready 
to subscribe it. And, as we have publickly and 
particularly in the last synod acknowledged the 
platform of church discipline, which was agreed 
upon by the elders and messengers of the church- 
es to be for the substance of it orthodox, so we do 
now in particular approve what we do believe 
the thirteenth chapter of that book throughout to 
be according to rule and the mind of God in his 
word, respecting the case therein treated of, and 
that any deviation therefrom is irregular, and 



1 32 ALLEN. 

SECT. iz. wherein any of our sinful infu-mities have been 
168 J. grievous to all or any of your church, we ask 
forgiveness both of God and of yourselves ; and 
desire daily to pray, " What we know not teach 
thou us, and if we have done amiss, we will do so 
no more." For ourselves we are heartily content, 
that all things, wherein we judge ourselves to have 
been aggrieved cease [and] be buried in oblivion." 
" The God of grace direct you to a good and 
happy issuing of the great aifair, which you have 
so candidly begnn, and cover all the failings of 
his people under the robe of Christ's righteous- 
ness, grantmg unto us all the blessings of the 
gospel of peace, and to yourselves the blessed- 
ness of peacemakers !" 

" So pray, worshipful, reverend, and beloved, 
your brethren in the lord Jesus Christ, 

SAMUEL WILLARD, 

in the name and with the free 
and full vote of the brethren 
of thf third g-athered church 
in Uoston. 
To the Rev. Mr. James Allen, 
teacher, and Mr. Jolin Wiswall, 
ruling elder, of the first g'ather- 
ed church in Boston. These, 

To be communicated to the church." 

" Letter from the First Church in Boston to 
the Third." 

" At a meeting of the First Church of Christ 
in Boston, May 7, 1682." 

" Honoured, worshipful, reverend, beloved i» 
the Lord." 

" We have received your return by the wor- 
shipful Mr. John Hull, esquire, and the Reverend 



ALLEN. 133 

Mr. Samuel Willard to our motion to hear, seot.ix. 



wherein you express your thankful reception and 1682. 
full concurrence with the condition of accommo- 
dation therein mentioned, which we declare to be 
acceptable to us. And, wherein our sinful infir- 
mities have been grievous to you or any of your 
church, we mutually ask forgiveness of God and 
you. And desire all offences, we judge have been 
given us, may be forgiven and forgotten, desiring 
to forgive others, even as we believe God for 
Christ's sake hath forgiven us." 

" And we further entreat, that both our mo- 
tion and your return and this conclusion may be 
recorded with you, as it shall be with us, in 
memory of a happy issue of our uncomfortable 
dispute and the way of our peace." 

" Now the God of peace, that brought again 
from the dead our lord Jesus Christ, that great 
shepherd of the sheep, by the blood of the ever- 
lasting co\'enant, make you perfect in every 
good work to do his will, working in you, that 
which is most well pleasing in his sight." 

" So pray, honoured, reverend, beloved, your 
brethren in the faith and fellowship of the gospel,, 

JAMES ALLEN. 
JOHN WISWALL." 

" With the full and unanimous consent of the brethren." 

Whether the growing debilities of Mr. Allen 
rendered a colleague necessary, whether it was 
his particular desire, or whether, such being the 
paucity of preachers in those days, the church 
tliought itself obliged to enlist into its service 



134 ALLEN. MOODEY. 

SECT IX. every minister, whose assistance might be pro- 
jgg.-, cured ; several persons, about this tinie, were 
invited to cooperate with the incumbent teacher 
in feeding his flock. A Mr. Sanipbon Bond, in 
particular, on the 26th of Sepir.niber of this year, 
was invited to tlie office of assistant f^reacher ; but 
the vote, for some reason, was never carried into 
effect. 
1684. ^^t, on 3 May, 1684, a measure of this kind 
was happily effectuated in regard to Rev. Joshua 
Moodey. This gentleman was son of William 
Moodey of Newbury, born in 1632, and was grad- 
uated at Harvard college, in 1653. In 1660, he 
was invited to become minister of Portsmouth, 
where he regukirly and faithfully laboured, until, 
in the month of February,* in this year, he was 
violently suspended from office by the tyranny of 
governour Cranfield. Persecuted in Portsmouth, 
he fled to Boston, where he was received with 
open arms by the members of First Church. | 

* Alden's account of Relig-ious Societies in Ports tr.outli. 
f Mr. Moodey was invited to tlie situation, he lield in the chui-ch, 
3 Muy, 1684, as will appear from tlie following extracts from First 

Church records. 

" 11, 3 mo. 1684." 

" At a meeting of tlie Old Church in Boston." 
" Q. Brethren, the providence of God having brought Mr.Joshua 
Moodey unto the town under such circumstances, as you know, 
whether you be willing, that, in the name of the church, lie be de- 
sired, during his abode and residence here, to be constantly helpful 
to our teacher, Mr. James Allen, in preaching the word of God 
among us ? Voted affirmatively." 

" 'rhe providence of God having cast Rev. Mr. Joshua Moodey 
among us by shutting the door of liberty for his ministry in his own 
oluu'ch at Portsmouth, we do earnestly desire, that he would con- 
stantly exercise ministry with our teacher among us, until he hath 



ALLEN. MOODF.Y. 1 35 

He here commenced his labours under flattcrinj^ skc. ix. 
circumstances. The congregation \\ere pleased i684. 
with him, as a man, as a scholar, and as a theolo- 
gian. He was so distinguished for his literary 
and scientifick attainments, that, on the death of 
president Rogers, 2 July, 1684, he was elected 
his succcssour. Bat he preferred his situation, as 
assistant minister in First Church.* 

The death cf Charles H. which took place, on 1685. 
16 Feb. 1635, and some revolutions in the polit- 
ical order and customs of M:»ssachusetts, conse- 
quent on that event, secin to have made no es- 
pecial change in the ecclesiastical usage of these 
davs. In the follovviiig year, when sir Edmund 1586. 
Andros arrived with a commission from king 
James for the government of Newengland, a more 
serious apprehension was indulged for the old- 
fashioned liberty of i.'idependent churches. Though 
all denominations of christians were to be tolera- 
ted, yet there was manifested a strong partiality for 
the church of England. There was, as yet, no 
episcopal church in Boston ; but the liuirgy was 
begun to be read, and the burial service to be 
used at the interment of the dead. The puritans 
were alarmed. Half a century before, the intro- 
duction of the common prayer book would not 
have been extremely abhorrent to the feelings of 



free and oprj-" liberty to return to them again, which we express as 
an explanation of our former vote by our mind therein. 

Voted unanimously, as attest, 
JAM!:S \LLKN, 
JO'IN V/It5\/ALL." 
* Belknap's N. Hamp. i. 210. Collections Hist. Society, vi. 5. 



136 ALLEN. MOODEY. 

..p(^^,^ j^ Bostonians. But a variety of circumstances, 
since that period, had strengthened their antipa- 

1686. . . T% T A 11 

thies to the episcopal service. Mr. Allen was 
one of the two thousand ministers, who, in 1662, 
had, in a manner, been sacrificed by the Barthol- 
omew act. The congregational character with 
its growth had acquired a respectable degree of 
independence and hardihood ; and the designs 
and manners of englishmen, arriving from the 
parent country, as they were not altogether cal- 
culated to secure confidence, began to awaken 
unpleasant suspicions. The presence of the 
excellent Moodey reminded every one of the im- 
perious and abominable conduct of Cranfield, 
I who had insisted, that the Lord's supper should be 
administered conformably to the english liturgy, 
and in no other way; * and the behaviour of 
Randolph and Andros wore a similar aspect. In 
this state of things a meeting was had at Mr. Al- 
len's, at which all the ministers and four of each 
congregation were present. They had the same 
impressions respecting the intentions of the gov- 
ernour. They believed, that he purposed making 
use of a meeting-house for the celebration of pub- 
lick worship according to the liturgy ; and they 
were agreed in opinion, that they ought to frus- 
trate his purpose. Their counsels however 
were ineffectual. After viewing the three meet- 
ing-houses, the govcrnour determined to make 
use of the one belonging to the Third, or Old 
South, society. It was in vain, that the measure 

♦ Alden's account of Religious Societies in Portsmouth, p. 12- 



Al-LEX. MOODEX- 137 

was deplored by a number of the most respecta- sect. ix. 
ble proprietors ; that tliey urged iheir right to the j^^ 
edifice, and the land, on which it stood, and the 
cruelty of infringing on their religious immuni- 
ties. The governour caballed with two or three 
busybodies, and ordered the sexton of the church 
to open the doors and ring the bell. The fellow 
durst not refuse obedience to the first magistrate 
of the colony ; and the service was performed in 
the meeting-house agreeably to his wishes.* 
This infraction on the rights of congregationalists 
was perhaps never repeated ; for immediately af- 
terwards the fust episcopal society in Boston was 
instituted, and a church consecrated to the english 
establishment. f 

Joseph Dudley had been president of Massa- 
chusetts ; and, although the change, which com- 
menced with his administration, was ominous to 
the people, yet they had no suspicion of his reli- 
gious principles. J His successour however, sir 
Edmund Andros, fully opened the eyes of the 
community to the snares, which were laying for 
them. Andros considered all congregational 
clergymen, as laymen. A design was now laid to 
establish the church of England on the ruins of 
Congregationalism ; and, as a means of carrying 
this plan into effect, it w^as intended, that no mar- 

* Holmes' Annals, i. 469. 

t In this year also, was constituted the french protestant society 
of christians, consisung of pious refugees, wlio had fled their coun- 
try, on the revocation of the edict of Xantz. They reared a small 
brick rlmrch in school street. 

I Hutch. i.3l5. 
S 



1687. 



ir,8 ALLL:X. ?iI0O!)EV. 

SEC r. IX. riagcs should be legal, which were not solemniz- 
16S7 ^^ ^y ''^^ episcopal priest. This was not all. 
The people ^verc threatened with the loss of their 
meeting-houses. But the tcrrour of their appre- 
hensions was mitigated by the tolerant proclama- 
tion of James ; although there were some of the 
wisest and best men of the congregational order, 
who thought, that it smelt of popery, and was the 
fruit of an artful scheme. Many congregations 
agreed to address the king, and that of First 
Church anions; them.* 

o 

So great were the political agitations of this 
period, both in England and America, that the 
voice of religion was, for the most part, silent. 
The most gloomy fears pervaded the friends of 
ecclesiastical liberty. They saw the press re- 
strained, the rights of conscience violated, and 
the most intolerant and tyrannical doctrines op- 
enly advocated. It was on this day of darkness, 
when the possessions and immunities of Neweng- 
land w ere most seriously threatened, thdt the pat- 
riotick and intrepid Matherf secretly sailed for 
England, and with his own hand presented the 
complaints of the people to the king against the 



6 Nov. 



^6S7 * " ^°^'^'^' ''> ""a>"'Tiaus consent of the brethren, tliat an address 

should be drawn up to he sent to his majesiy in their names to ex- 
press their liumi.'le thankfuhiess for his g-racious decLaration of lib- 
erty to our consciences, and securing our liberties. 

JAMES ALLEN." 

"Mr. ******* only moved, tliat it might be known, what was 

writ. It was answered, there was a libertj' for any, that desired it, 

to see it at my house ; which satisfied all with tha vote foremen- 

tioncd." First Church records, p. 45. 

t Rev. Increase Mather, D. D. President of Harvard college. 



ALLEN. MOODEV. 1 39 

government of the province.* That providence sect. ix. 
however, which has ever patronised with pecuUar 
care the principles and rights of the congrega- 
tional churches of this country, still favoured 
their independence on the kingdoms of this 
world, and, in due time, dispelled their dismal 
apprehensions. 

The fiscal as well, as religious concerns of the 
society, were now managed entirely by members 
of the church ; and the pastor probably, for the 
most part, was present and presided. At these 
meetings, a variety of matters was usually agita- 
ted ; and provision for the ministry, for the stran- 
ger, for the poor, for the reformation of morals, 
and for the preservation of church property, was 
often made, at the same meeting, and sometimes 
almost in the same vote. In a note below the 
reader may find an illustration of this remark in 
several examples, which, whilst they develop, are 
honorary to the ecclesiastical character and cus- 
toms of the day.f 

* Hutchinson i. 328. Belknap i. 234. 

t " July 22, 1691 Voted, that our brethren, Mr. Jeremiah 
Dummer and capt. Pen Townsend do assist the deacons in recov- 
ering fourscore pounds of money, due from Mr Wharton's estate to 
the church for a parcel of land sold him on fort-hill." pp. S3, 99. 

" Voted, that the deacons do sell a piece of land near Mr, Valen- 
tine's, he is about to buy of them." Ibid. 

" Voted, that our brethren, major Hutchinson, Mr. Ezekiel Chee- 
vers, Mr. Dummer, Mr. Front, Mr. Deering debate and prepare 
an answer for the church to the inquiry of the deacons about the 
way to pay for the rent of Mr. Moodey's iiouse, for the time past, 
and also to acquaint themselves with the church stock in the dea- 
cons' hands <, and what is given and fit to be settled on our teiichinc: 



1692. 



IV) AI.LKX. MOODEV. 

i^jiCT.ix. Among the enlightened, bold, and faithful ec- 
"ifisT^ clesiasticks of Nevvengland, in her infantile state, 
Joshua Moodcy, who now, for several years, had 
adorned the pulpit of First Church, will ever 
stand in a conspicuous station. It is not won- 
derful therefore, that the society, which knew his 
worth, should, on the prospect of losing him, 
make a formal effort to detain him, as a perma- 
1690. j^^j^^ associate with their present pastor. But 

2i Sep. . , ^ ^ 

there was a probability, that he might return in 
peace to the people of his former charge. In 
1692, this probabihty became a fact. He resum- 
ed in Portsmouth, at the earnest entreaties of his 
congregation, and by advice of an ecclesiastical 
council, the functions of an office, which he dearly 
loved, and to which he was supremely devoted. 
Yet, though he valued himself chiefly on his la- 
bours, as a divine, and though, such was his dili- 

officer, to be i^ifhoiit variation, unless by church consent, and that 
they assist about ordering the poor." Ibid. 

" Voted, ten poinid a year be allowed to our teaclicr for his wood 
at the least." Ibid. 

" Voted, that each one will endeavour to prevent i:)nllution of the 
Lord's day by any oftlieir families, and that they will sliut up shops, 
before sundown, on the last day of tlie week, and bring- their cliil- 
dren and servants within doors, God assisting." First Churcli 
records, p 53- 

" 26 yuly, 1691. Voted, upon debate about the poor, that they 
ought,as town dwellers,to have the benefit of their privileg-e belong, 
ing to the poor oi the town under religious government. Is. xlv 23. 
and that the deacons only furtlier supply them with further support, 
as shall be in general directed by the church, and advised by the 
ruling- ofhrers. Gal. vi. 10." Ibid. 

3 August 1691. " Forti/, that our teacher have an hundred and 
four pound, a year, that is, forty shillings, a week, and ten pound 
for wood, yearly, and more, as the church is able." Ibid. 



ALLEN. MOODEY. 141 

gence, as a writer, that, in the course of his min- sect, ix, 
istry, he composed upwards of four thousand "^2 
sermons, he was not deficient in fulfilling the du- 
ties of a neighbour and friend. His integrity and 
goodness of heart were especially manifest in the 
affair of witchcraft, which was producing its mise- 
ries, about the time of his returning to Piscataqua. 
A Mrs. English, a well bred, amiable woman, 
inhabiting Salem village, was accused of witch- 
craft. Her husband, who was also eminent for 
his worth and accomplishments, visited her in 
prison ; and therefore he too was accused and im- 
prisoned. On some kind of pretence, they were 
removed to the jail in Boston, where they were 
visited by Mr. Moodey, who invited them to 
church, and who preached before them from 
these words, " If they persecute you in one city, 
flee to another." He meant, that the sacred ad- 
vice, which he gave, should be liberally understood 
and followed. He more than assisted them in 
making the application. He procured the means 
of their escape and conveyance from Boston to 
Newyork ; wrote letters to governour Fletcher of 
that place ; and secured them a respectable recep- 
tion and safe retreat. In the following year, Mr, 
and Mrs. English returned, and ever gratefully 
and justly ascribed their salvation from the gibbet 
to the intrepidity and benevolence of Mr. Moo- 
dey.* This beneficent man was however a suf- 
ferer for his virtue. The prejudices of the times 

* Mr. Bentley's letter to Mr. Aldcn. Sec account of Religious 
Societies in Portsmouth, p.33. 



142 ALLEN. MOODEV. 

SECT. IX. were against him for the very act of fortitude 
ir>9o above related ; and he went from Boston with a 
diminished reputation in the eyes of the multi- 
tude. But he had a better testimony in his fa- 
vour, than that of publick applause, even the wit- 
ness of a good conscience before God. This 
heavenly comforter attended him through life, 
and whispered sweet peace to his departing spirit. 
His days had been checkered, but their conclusion 
was serene. He was on a visit to Boston, in the 
f^ummer of 1697, when he was taken with a 
sickness, of which he died, on the 4th of July. 
Dr. Cotton Mather*^ preached his funeral sermon, 
which is preserved in the Magnalia, and which 
represents Mr. Moodey, as having expired in the 
vigorous faith of beholding that Redeemer, whom 
he had served in the gospel. 

Mr. Moodey published a practical discourse on 
the benefit of communion, being the substance of 
several sermons,! in 1685. This was reprinted, 
in 1746. He also preached and published the 
election sermon in Massachusetts, for 1692. 

From the beginning of 1685 to the close of 
1692, there were admitted into First Church one 
hundred and ten persons, of whom ninety-two 
were females. In the same time, two hundred 
and fifteen persons had been baptized, of whom 
the females were one hundred and eleven. 

It is natural, whilst contemplating the concerns 
of a single churcli, to glance at tlie condition of 

- M.ir-iialia iv. 192. f Allen's Biograpliical Dictionar)'. 



AJ.LEN. MOODEY. 143 

the churches m general. But the period, of skct. ix. 
which we treat, was in every view critieal and im- 1692. 
portant. The government and politicks of the • 
country were assuming new forms ; and none 
could foresee the consequences of the change. 
It was in this year, that the old charter of Massa- 
chusetts gave place to the new, whence the peo- 
ple ot the colony were deprived of a portion of 
their ancient privileges ; though the new did, 
what the old charter did not, expressly provide 
for liberty of conscience to all denominations of 
christians, excepting papists. This year also was 
marked by various calamities in the natural as 
well, as civil and ecclesiastical history of America. 
The floods in Delaware were destructive both of 
property and of life. An earthquake at Jamaica 
buried in the ruins of Portroyal two thousand 
of its citizens ; and three thousand persons more 
of the white inhabitants of the island were swept ** 
away by the pestilence, that followed.* In New- 
hampshire the small pox was raging. It was 
now too, that prodigious stories and appearances 
of witchcraft were rife ; and the heart of sensi- 
bility is distressed in recurring to the dslusion, 
distraction, and bloodguiltiness, of which the 
country, especially Salem, was the scene. 

On 17 July, 1693, Rev. John Bailey, an ejected 1593 
minister from England, was invited to join his 17 july 
labours with Mr. Allen's in teaching the congre- 
gation.f This act does not seem to have passed 

* Holmes' \nnals ii. 14. 

t Voted, that our teacher do invite Mr..Tchn Bayley to assist him 
m preaching' constantly, while among us, three times in a month, or 
oftener, if he please. First Church records, p. 54. 



144. ALLEN. MOODEY. 

SECT. IX. from any necessity, for Mr. Allen was not more, 

1693. than sixty years of age ; but from a zeal in the 
society to avail themselves of new light, whenev- 
(. r it was in their power, and also from motives of 
cliarity. Here was a good man, who had been 
persecuted in his native country for his attach- 
ment to congregational worship ; and there was 
a disposition to support the reputation, which 
Newengland had already acquired, for being the 
asylum of persecuted christians. 

29 Nov. On the 29th of November, in the same year, 
Mr. Benjamin Wadsworth, who, three years be- 
fore, had been graduated at Harvard college, was 
invited to the same office of assistant teacher, once 
a month. t This vote was renewed three several 
times ;J and the candidate continued to preach, as 

f " Voted, at a meeting' of the church at my house, imanimously, 
^J JNov. ^^^^^ Qj^ij. teacher invite Mr. Wadsworth to assist him constantly, 
ouce a month, or any other vacancy in preacliing, and any other 
help, he shall judge needful." First Church records, p. 54. 

\ " It is agreed to and voted by this church, tliat Mr. Benjamin 

1694. Wadsworth be desired to continue his mini.stry among us, once a 
'2 .liily. month ; and at other times, when, by the providence of God, Mr. 

Bailey is hindered in his work, and our teacher desires it. Hoping-, 
that, in time, there may he such a door open for a manifestation of 
Our mutual closing for further work and service for Christ in this 
cluirch." Ibid. p. 55. 

" Voted, at a church meeting-, March 19, 1694-5, that we do de- 
sire Mr. Benjamin Wadsworth to continue his labours in preaching-, 
once a month, to us ; and at other times, as the works be needed, 
and he be by our teaclier desired ; in order to a teaching officer 
among us." ISid. 

•' Mr. Wadswortli his answer in writing-, which was read to the 
church, June 23, !695, in which he accepted their call according- to 
this vote." Ibid. 

" Voted, December 18, 1695. At a cliurch meeting. Whereas 
Mr. Wadsworth, in iiis late answer to the church, hath expressed 
his willingness, (if we continued our afl'ectjon to him) to the ser- 



ALLi:X. MOODEY. J 45 

an assistant, the greater part of the time, nntil 8 sectix. 
September, 1696, when he was inducted by the i696 
neighbouring ministers with a Ibrmaliiy, hitherto 

unpractised in the land.f 

During the four last years, ending with 1696, 
eighty persons of the congregation became com- 
municants, sixty-two of whom were females. 
One hundred and fifty-seven children were bap- 
tized, within the same period, of whom eighty- 
three were boys. 

vice of Christ in this church, we do fully and sincerely declare, we 
continue in the same mind and attection towards him, as formerly ; 
and do therefore, in order to the fulfilling' our desires, request him 
to conie to the toiun, and live among us ; purposing (God willing) to 
proceed to his full settlement in office among us,withoutloss and un- 
reasonable delay, according to the custom of the churches amongus. 

JAMES ALLKN." Idid. 

" 1656, May the 5th, voted at a church meeting, i>y tlieir can de- 
sire, tliat tliey do unitedly desire tlie continuance of Mr. John Bailey 
in his ministry among us. And also, that the teacher, in tlieir 
name, advise Mr. Wadsworth to takeout his dismission from the 
church, he belongs to, and join with this church." I6id. p. 56. .- 

June 21, 1696, the name of Benjamin Wadsworth appears among 
the additions. 

" Vugust 9. Voted anew a choice of Mr. Wadsworth to [the] 
teaching office ; and 8th of September to be the day of ordina- 
tion. Five neighbour churches to be sent to ; the North and South 
in Boston, Charh^stown, Dorchester, and Roxbury." 

" -vug. 30. Voted, that, afier Mr Wadsworth's ordination, he 
shall be declared a pastor to this church."' The following is after- 
wards added in Mr. Wadsworth's hand writing. " This vote was 
executed, 8 Sep. 1696." Ibid. 

f " liiave seen an account," says Mr. Hutchinson, " of an ordi- 
nation, about the year 1640, of Mr Hooke, at Taunton, then Cohas- 
set, in Plymouth colony, by the schoolmaster and one of the bretii- 
ren, an liusbandman, although Mr Wilson and Mr. Mather, two 
ministers, were present. But the general practice was otherwise ; 
and,at this day, an ordination by the lay brethren, althougli it might 
not be condemned, as invalid, yet would be generally disapproved 
iind discountenanced." Hutch, i. 374. 
T 



1697. 



SECTION X. 

From the ordination of Mr. Wadsworth, 8 S^^ptember, 1696, to that 
ofMr. Bridg-e, iO May, 1705. 

Fo R a little more than a year, the congregation was 
SECT. X. under the united care of Messrs. Allen, Bailey, 
16116. ^iid Wadsworth. But this union was interrupted, 
near the close of the following year, by the death 
of Mr. Bailey, who, upwards of four years, had 
been an assistant to Mr. Allen, and who had en- 
deared himself to all his hearers and acquaintances 
by a most fervent piety and untired beneficence. f 
He was born, 24 Feb. 1644, near Blackburn, in 
Lancashire, England, of a mother, who early 
dedicated him to the service of God, and careful- 
ly instructed him in a knowledge of the scrip- 
tures. He was initiated in grammar under an 
eminent schoolmaster, by the name of Sager, and 
afterwards taught the higher branches of science 
and literature by Dr. Harrison, whose life is 
drawn in the Nonconformist's Memorial. J At 
the age of twenty-two, he began his ministry in 
Chester, where he stayed a short time only, on ac- 
count of his congregational principles, and whence 
he was removed by government to Lancashire 
jail. 

t Mather's Magnalia, iii. 232. \ Vol. i. p. 330. 



ALLEN. BAILEY. WADSWORTIL I ir. 

Released from prison, he travelled into Ireland, sect. x. 
and took the charge of a congregation in Limer- iQgy 
ick. He, here laboured for fourteen years, with 
indefatigable industry and brilliant success. So 
distinguished was he by his talents and fidelity in 
office, as to attract the notice of people of the first 
rank, and to obtain the offer of a deanery and the 
promise of a bishoprick, on condition of conform- 
ity. But neither flattering prospects of fame and 
opulence, on the one hand, nor the most cruel in- 
dignities, on the other, were sufficient to divert 
his purpose of fulfilling the ministry, which he 
had received, in the manner corresponding with 
his notions of evangelical simplicity. Free from 
factious design, he maintained a straight and fear- 
less course. Though the tenour of his life was 
blameless, beneficent, and amiable, so that he 
could go nowhere without finding friends, yet he 
suffered another most grievous imprisonment for 
his opinions ; whilst papists, in the same period 
and region, experienced the blessings of tolera- 
tion and peace. Said he to his judges, " If I 
had been drinking, gaming, and carousing with 
company at a tavern, I presume, my lords, I 
should not thus have been treated, as an offender. 
Must praying to God and preaching Christ with a 
company of christians, who are peaceable, inof- 
fensive, and serviceable to his majesty and the 
government, as any of his subjects ; must this be 
considered, as a greater crime ?" The recorder 
answered, " We will have you to know it w a 
srreater crime." 



M3 ALI.Ey. BAILEY, WADS WORTH. 

KECT. X.. '1^^ ^^^'^ virtuous and suffering nonconformist 



Neweno'Iand at Icnpth afforded a covert from tlie 

1697. , ^ ^ , 

howling and destructive tempest.* Arriving in 
this country, in 1G83, he was freely indulged by 
providence, in what he deemed the best of earthly 
employments, the preaching of the gospel. His 
discourses were plain, popular, fervent ; calcula- 
ted rather to compel his hearers into the way of 
salvation, than to exercise their understandings 
with his learning and logick, or their imaginations 
with rhetorical flowers. After the example of 
the pious Shepard,t he resolved, that the study- 
ing of every sermon should cost him tears ; that, 
before he preached it to others, he would profit by 
it himself ; and that, in carrying it into the pulpit, 
he would consider himself, as if going to give an 
account of his stewardship. His life was such, as 
showed itself influenced by these resolutions. 
He was rigidly watchful of his heart, conversa- 
tion, and actions ; and so tender was his con- 
science, that sometimes the most innocent indul- 
gences occasioned him regret and disquietude. 
" Three things," he would say, " I desire to get ^ 
patience under the calamities of life, impatience 
under its moral infirmities, and earnest longings 
for the life to com.e." The scriptures were dear 
to him, not only as a professional stud}', but as a 
treasury of intellectual wealth to the scholar and 
of consolation to the pious individual. In one of 
his letters to a friend he writes, " How terrible 
are the thrc;itenings, how precious are the prom- 

* Allcii's !!if::-rraphic.il Dictloiiaiy. 

j Hev. 'I'lumias ylien.ii-d oi' Cainhrldcre, 



ALLEN. BAILEY. WADSWORTH. 149 

ises, how serious are the precepts, how deep are rsECT. x. 
the prophecies of this holy book !" It was evi- ~~[^^ 
dent from his manner of conducting social pray- 
er, that his heart was in it, and that it was intend- 
ed to operate, as a rule of life. His addresses to 
heaven frequently contained the following peti- 
tion, " May we not be of the number of them, 
who live without love, speak without feeling, and 
act without life." With great calmness and 
high hopes, at the age of fifty-four, he terminated 
his diligent and exemplary course, on sunday, 
12 December, 1697, and was interred the thurs- 
day following.* 

He published, " Man's chief end to glorify 
God," a sermon preached at Watertown, 1689, 
and an address to the people at Limerick, in 1684.t 
Dr. Cotton Mather preached his funeral ser- 
mon, which has supplied the principal materials 
to the several notices of his life. He was buried 
in the cemetery in Common-street, Boston, where 
many of his descendants have mingled their dust 
with his. The names of Willis and Belknap 
mark a number of his posterity in the female line ; 
and there are now living two of his grandchil- 
dren, three great-grandchildren, and several of the 
fifth generation. 

The discipline of the church, at this time, 169'* 
seems to have been carefully attended to ;J 

' First Ci)h. R. p. 57. f New Eng. ^\og. Diet. 

\ The following may serve, as a specimen of clmrcli censures, at 
that clay, frequently administered. " »****■* ****** ^vas admon- 
ished publickly, Jan. 16, 1698, for begging charity of people for 
some poor person or persons, as she pretended, yet keeping the 
most of \\ at she so gathered for her own use. In the management 



169 ALLEN BAILEY. WADSWORTH. 

SECT.x. thoiig^h it is easy to perceive, that there was a 
jggg gradual relaxation of the rigour formerly prac- 
tised. 

Ecclesiastical controversy still had its foment- 
ers in the state ; and tracts were frequently appear- 
ing in defence of some useless reiick of antiquity, 
or in favour of some silly innovation. The fol- 
lowing record, in the hand writing of Mr. Allen, 
may contribute to show the temper of the times 
and the sentiments of the church. " Feb. 10, 
iroi. 1701. Whereas there is a print lately come 
forth dedicated to the churches of Christ in New- 
england, entitled, " Gospel order revived," 
wherein are harsh expressions and unmeet against 
the present practice of this church and the pro- 
fessed way of congregational churches therein ; 
we do herein declare our utter dislike thereof, 
though we do not condemn those, who conscien- 
tiously practise otherwise. And we desire the 
platform of the church discipline may be reprint- 
ed, that those, who are unacquainted with it, may 
know it, which is the directory of our practice, 
so far as it agrees with the word of God. Voted 
by a very full consent."* 

There were now probably in the church two 
hundred communicants. The rules of its disci- 
pline were rigid, and commonly observed with 
exactness. This remark applies with equal truth 



of this affair, am.! discoursing witli persons ribout the same, she was 
a'so guilty of stmdry abominable lies. She was again restored, Aug. 
28, 16:^3." First Chvu'ch records, p. 57. 

* First Clnu'ch records, p. 59. 



ALLEN. WAUSWORTH ' 5 J 

to all the churches then s^rovving in Newengland. sect, x 
Our fothers had lost, though somewhat of their 1704 
learning, yet little of their puritanism. All offi- 
cers of the church were ordained by prayer and 
the imposition of hands. The distinction be- 
tween pastors and teacl^ers, and betvveen elders 
and deacons, though constantly diminishing, was 
still regarded. Small deviations from the puth of 
christian sobriety, in the professors of religion, 
subjected them to the admonition, if not censure 
of the church, whilst heinous oflences were pun- 
ished w^ith immediate excommunication.* 

During the last eight years, beginning with 
1697, one hundred and seventy persons adjoined 
themselves to the fellowship of the church, sixty- 
nine of whom were men, and one hundred and 
one women. Two hundred and ninety-two chil- 
dren had, in the same period, been baptized ; one 
hundred and forty-eight of whom were males, and 
one hundred and forty-four females. 

Mr. Allen, through the infirmities of age, had 
ceased preaching, in his turn, the thursday lec- 



* This, though a far more frequent punishment, in that day, than 
tliis, was viewed, as one of tlie most terrible of evils. *' A law was 
made, in 1638, that, if any person stood excummunicated, six months, 
tliey should be liable to fine, imprisonment, or banisliment, as the 
court of assistants should determine ; but this law ai)proachcd too 
nigii to the ecclesiastical laws in Ens^land, so much complained of, 
to continue lonsj in force, and, in '639, it was repealed. But the 
first laws seem to deprive an excommunicated person, and also a 
whole church, if separated from the rest, of all civil privileg-es, al- 
tliough the platform does not suppose deprivation of civil rights and 
autliority to be the necessary consequence, yet even by the plat- 
form all others were to " forbear to eat and drink with excommvini- 
cated persons." Hutchinson i. 373. 



152 ALLEN, WADSWORTH 

SECT. X. turejf and rarely took on him any portion of the 
1704. service of the Lord's day. In quest of his succes- 
sour,the eyes of the church were turned upon Mr. 
Thomas Bridge, who came to Boston with his 
family, 17 March, 1704, and who was soon em- 
ployed, as a probationer for the pastoral office. 



t 29 September, 1702. " Voted, that this committee be desired 
to advise with those ministers, which carry on the weekly lecture 
in Boston, and with their advice endeavour to supply Mr. Allen's 
monthly turn in the said lecture.'' First Church records, p. 98. 



SECTION XI. 

From the ordination of Mr. Bridge, 10 May, 1705, to the death of 
Mr. Allen, 22 September, 1710. 

On the tenth of May, 1705, Rev. Thomas 
Bridge| was regularly installed a colleague pastor sf,ct. xi. 
with Messrs. Allen and Wadsworth. The 17o5~~ 
church designated the mode of induction, and two 
of its elders united with the ministers in the im- 
position of hands. ^ 

\ " An answer to a vote of the First Church of Clirist in Boston 
from Kev. Mr. Thomas Bridge, d;ited M:irch 31, 1705.'' 
" Dearly beloved," 

" I have entertained your former invitation, and this also with 
fear and trembling, being sen.sible of the greatness of the work, 
and my manifold infirmities ; but I am not my own ; and my en- 
coura 'cment is, that the grace of Christ is sufficient for me. I 
have therefore solemnly, freely, and entirely resigned myself up to 
his dispose, and find satisfaction therein. I bless liis glorious name 
for the acceptance, my labours have found amongst you, and looking 
upon it, as his work, that your hearts are inclined to give me this 
ca I therefore thankfully and willingly accept it." First Church 
records, p. 88 

§ At a meeting of the church, 17 April, called to make the 
necessary arr.ant^ements for ordination, after voting to send for the 
three churches in Boston, and the chiu-ches in Roxbury, Dorches- 
ter, Charlestown, and Milton, the brethren proceeded to the as- 
signment of particular services. " Upon the question, who should 
give the charge to Mr. Bridge, and lay on hands, at his ordination; 
Resolved by vote, that our teacher Allen should give the charge, 
I" 



iroj. 



Iji ALI-EN. ISHIDGE. \VAlJ;5Wt)inil. 

SRCT.xi. From 1702 to 1709 the church caused its dea- 
cons and comniittees no small trouble in the 
management of its real estate. The property in 
question was a house, lately occupied by Mr. 
William Persons, some land, which, a short time 
before, had been given by Mr. Richard Taylor, 
another parcel of land near Fort-hill, and a house 
and lot of land, on the south side of Summer- 
street, called Hollingshead's lot. At a meeting 
of the brethren, in September, 1702, they deter- 
mined to sell the first mentioned house, with the 
land given them by Mr. Taylor, and to retain the 
Fort-hill land, which had been bargained away, 
but not paid for, to Mr. Richard Wharton. At a 
meeting, 7 April, 1709, they agreed to purchase 
an estate of capt. Balston, in Water-street, at the 
price of 300/. for the use of the ministry, and, at 
the same time, voted to make sale of Hollings- 
head's lot. Towards purchasing the phice in 
Water-street, Mr. Dummer generously assisted 
them by advancing the specie. But the situation 
not answering expectation, it was voted, at a sub- 
sequent meeting,the next year, to sell ii.* At the 

and have lllKMly lo desire nn}- ancient elders to pray before and af- 
ter ; and tliat the Rev. .Mr. Increase Matiier and Mr. Samuel Wil- 
lard be the persons desired to join with our elders to lay on liands." 

"Thursday, 10th of May, 1705, the Rev. Mr. Thomas tSridge was 
ordained a pastor over the First Church of Christ in Boston. Mr. 
James Allen, teacher, gave him tiie charg'e, and layed on hands 
with elder Brldgliam, and elder Cope, or Cobb." F.C.ll. p. 188. 

* " At a meeting of the church, at the house of the Rev. Mr. 
Benjamin Wadswortli, Jan. 5th, 1709- iO. On consideration of some 
inconveniences, attending the situation of the liouse lately purchas- 
ed, for tlic use of tlie ministry, (at tlic time not foreseen,) which 
make it unsuitable for the occasion ; Voted, that the deacons be 



ALLEN. BRIDGE. WADSWORTH. 155 

same time, they voted to retain the Hollingshead's sect, xl 
lot, and to apply the proceeds of the foremention- J7io~" 
ed sale to the building of a suitable house for one 
of the ministers. This lot is the land, since occu- 
pied by Chauncy-place, First Church, and the 
adjoining block of houses in Summer-street be- 
longing to the society ; and the house, erected in 
1710, was the one, in which Drs. Chauncy and 
Clarke died, and which was taken down, in 1807. 

22 September, 1710, died Rev. James Allen, ^o scpt 
the senior pastor of the church. He came to this 
country, in 1663, recommended by Mr. Good- 
win. He had been a minister in England, and a 
sufferer by the act of uniformity, passed, 24 Au- 
gust, 1662. He was not violently but steadily the 
friend of ecclesiastical liberty, and resolutely act- 
ed on the following opinion ; " When the gov- 
ernours of the church impose, as conditions of my 
communion, things, that are either unlawful in 
themselves, or that, after due examination, I 
verily believe, are unlawful, I am bound, in obe- 
dience to the authority of Christ, rather to desert 

desired, and hereby are empowered, to make sale of the said house 
and hind, u'/M the land since added thereto by grant Jrom the toun, io 
the best profit and advantage they can ; and to ext;cute a sufficient 
deed or deeds, in due form of law, for passing and conveying the 
same. Voted in the affirmative. The said Jan. 5, 1709-10, Tliat the 
money, which shall be produced and raised by the sale of the said 
house and land, be employed and laid out for the building a conve- 
nient suitable house, for the use of the ministry ; to be erected on 
the church land, known by the name of Hollingshead's lot. Voted 
in the affirmative, the same time. That the vote lately passed for 
the disposal of Hollingshead's lot be rescinded and made null. \o- 
ted in the affirmative, at the same time." F. Church rccordsj p, 

too. 



156 AIXEN. BUIDGE. WADSWORTII. 

SECT. XI. that communion, than comply with the terms and 
1710. conditions of it."f 

This opinion does not seem to have been 
adopted hastily, nor to have been variable in its 
influence. He was equally moderate and lenient 
in his concessions to others, on the score of indi- 
vidual freedom, as he was strenuous for the en- 
joyment of his own rights. He was willing to 
render to Caesar all proper tribute ; but he was 
unwilling, that C;iesar, in the capacity of civil mag- 
istrate, should interfere in holy things. The vote 
of the church, passed, 5 August, 1679,J in regard 
to thursday lecture, verifies this remark. Anoth- 
er vote, in the same year, and likewise penned by 
Mr. Allen, will serve to show, that he was equally 
desirous of shielding the church against the pow- 
er of the clergy, as against that of the civil ruler. 
There was then, as there commonly is in every 
period and portion of the church, a number of 
ministers, who, not contented with the power of 
doing good, were ambitious of pre-eminence. So 
synods must be called, and canons ordained for 
the regulation of ecclesiastical affairs, and wo to 
that church, which should dare to dispute the 
hierarchal authority. It is therefore not a little to 
the honour of this church, and its aged teacher, 
that, at so early a period, the vote alluded to should 
appear in the records. 

Mr. Allen had enjoyed a long, virtuous, and 
happy life of seventy-eight years, forty-six of 
which, he had been a member, and forty-two, a 
vigilant ruler and instructer of the church. 

t Scott's Christian Life. | See p. 129. 



ALT.EN. BRIDGE. WADSWORTIl. \57 

His wealth gave him the power, which he used, sect. xr. 
as a good bishop, to be hospitable. i7io~ 

He published " healthful diet," a sermon . 
<' Newengland's choicest blessings," an election 
sermon, 1679 ; " serious advice to delivered 
ones ;" " man's self reflection a means to further 
his recovery from his apostasy from God ;" and 
" two practical discourses."! 

His posterity have been respectable in Massa- 
chusetts, several of them having been publickly 
educated, and employed in offices of responsibili- 
ty. One of them is, at present, a worshipper in 
First Church. 

During the six years, ending in 1710, twenty- 
four men and sixty-six women had been admitted 
into the church. In the same space, the number 
of baptisms was two hundred and two, one hun- 
dred and thirteen males, and eighty -nine females- 

t American Biograpliical Dictionary. 



SS:C XII. 



SECTION XII. 

From the death of Mi- Allen, 22 September, 1710, to that of Mr. 
Bridge, 26 September, 1715. 

I HE year 1711 was rendered memorable to the 
■ church by the burning of its house of worship. 

1711. . 

3 Oct. The fire was occasioned by the intemperance and 
carelessness of a strange woman. Until 1760, 
it was called the great fire. It consumed the 
townhouse, all Cornhill, and the greater part of 
State-street. The loss sustained, through this 
disa.strous circumstance, by the congregation, was 
greatly alleviated by the kindness of the two 
neighbouring societies. The members of the 
Third Church, (Old South,) unanimously voted 
an offer of their church, for the mutual benefit of 
both congregations ; and generously stipulated a 
weekly provision for the pastors of the afflicted 
society. The votes relating to this measure were 
sent to Messrs. Bridge and Wadsworth, accom- 
panied by the following letter, which enbalms in 
the memory of First Church the piety, good 
sense, and sympathy of a Pemberton. 

" Boston, October 12, 1711." 
" Reverend gentlemen," 

" I'he church of Christ, which I stand related 
to, having considered the present dispersion of 



BRIDHE. WADSWORTII. 159 

your flock, through the holy hand of God, in the sec, xn . 
late desolation of their meeting-house, thought it mi. 
a proper and necessary expression of their chris- 
tian love and regards, to yourselves and flock, to 
pass the votes, a copy of which I now send you, 
according to their desire, which you may com- 
municate to your church, if you think proper. 
The votes were passed with the greatest unanim- 
ity and readiness. It will be to the last degree 
pleasing to us to have the advantage of your gifts 
and graces in every article desired. The last 
vote, which invites you to administer the special 
ordinances with us, in your turns, we hope, will 
be agreeable to your church ; for sure we are, it is 
a point of fellowship justifiable by the first and 
strictest principles of these churches." 

*' The allwise God has holy ends, which he is 
carrying on by the present dark dispensation your 
people are under ; and, if it may but be servicea- 
ble to advance the spirit of unity among these 
churches of Christ in this town, whereby we shall 
be better qualified for the society of the assembly 
of the first born above, we shall all have reason 
to bless and adore the holy providence of heaven." 

" May our gracious God speedily and peaceably 
repair your desolations, building up and beautify- 
ing your church with greater measures of his ho- 
ly spirit ; may all under your charge be your 
crown and joy in the day of Christ. This, rev- 
erend brethren, shall always be the prayer of your 
affectionate brother, 

EEEXEZER PEMRERTON.'' 



1.60 BRIDGE. WADSWOinil. 

SEC. XII. " At a meeting of the church in the south part 
'^ of Boston, October 7th, it was voted, that the 
Rev. Mr. Bi idge and Mr. Wadsworth, pastors of 
the First Church in Boston, be desired, during 
the present dispersion of their flock, to carry on 
akernatcly one half of the work of preaching in 
this congregation." 

" That the deacons of this church make the 
same weekly allowance to them for this service, 
that they do to our own pastor." 

" That the Rev. Mr. Bridge and Mr. Wads- 
worth be desired also to take their turns in the 
administration of baptism and the Lord's supper 
with us. 

EBENEZEU PEMBERTON."* 

The following letter, of the same date and pur- 
port, from the Fourth Church, (Brattle street,) was 
communicated, at the same time. 

" Boston, October 12, 1711." 
" Reverend sirs," 

" I think it meet to acquaint you, that, having 
stayed our church, the last evening, after the pub- 
lick exercises of worship, there past unanimously 
the following votes." 

" That yourselves be desired, under the pres- 
ent awful Providence, and till it shall please God, 
that your meeting-house be rebuilt, statedly and 
alternately to be and assist with us in the carry- 
ing on the worship of God among us." 

" That, out of the contribution weekly collected, 
three pounds be paid you, every week." 

* First Cluirch recoi-d.s, p. 102. 



BRIDGE. WADSWORTH. 161 

*' That you be desired, if it may be, for the sec. zii. 
time you continue with us, to join with us in an 1711. 
equal administration of all ordinances, in particu- 
lar baptism and the Lord's supper." 

" Sirs, these our desires we accompany with 
our thankful acknowledgements of that good spirit 
of brotherly affection, wherein you have come 
among us, and wherewith you have so kindly ac- 
cepted our bounden christian respects. We ask a 
further interest in your love and prayers, and 
hope, it will please God to make your presence 
and labours with us, from time to time, abun- 
dantly serviceable to his own glor}-, and our spir- 
itual good." 

" Reverend sirs, your unworthy brother in the 
ministry of Christ, 

BENJAMIN COLMAN." 

*' Reverend Mr. Tliomas Bridge, 

and !5cnjamin Wadswortli, pastors 
of tlie First Church in Boston." 

Due notice was taken of these expressions of 
christian sympathy ;* but w^hether in the Third 
or Fourth Church the congregation mostly wor- 
shipjDcd is unknown. Mr. Wadsworth preached, 
the Sunday after the conflagration, in the Third 
Church ; and the sermon delivered, together with 
the one last preached in the church consumed, 
and the first preached in the Old Brick, were pub- 
lished in a small volume, a copy of which is in 
the Theological Library. 

* " Whereupon tlie First Church of Christ in Boston, Oct. 12, 
1711, voted, that our reverend elders be desired, in the name of 
his church, to render thanks to the Rev. Mr Pemberton and Mr. 
Golman and to their churches for tlieir kind respects to us in their 
several letters of this date." First Church records, p 101 



162 lunnriK. avadswokth. 



1712. 



SEC. XII. During their scattered condition, the church 
were not inattentive to the rules of ecclesiastical 
order, and the means of improvement. The lib- 
eral christian will read with pleasure the subse- 
quent extracts, and will probably discover in 
them the seeds of a liberality, which, in regard to 
the admission of church members, has ever since 
been spreading and maturing in the churches of 
Massachusetts. 

" At a church meeting, 29 Feb. 1711-12, the 
following proposals were voted at the school-house. 

" First Church in Boston proposed to the rev- 
erend elders, 

" That, when persons desire admission into the 
church, they be examined of the nature of a 
church, of the institution of ordinances and offi- 
cers, of the authority and rule given by Christ to 
the elders, of the duty and privilege of the 
brotherhood. 

" This is to be summarily communicated to 
the church, together with the relation and belief 
of the party desiring admission. 

" That no objection be made to the receiving 
of any person professing faith in the Lord Jesus 
Christ, repentance of sin, and having a measure 
of scriptural knowledge of the order and govern- 
ment appointed by Christ in his church ; al- 
though he have not the persuasion, which others 
possibly may profess, about some particulars, that 
are matter of dispute among learned, pious, and 
holy men." 

From the moment, in which the old meeting- 
house was burned, the church was diligently em- 



BRIDGE. WADSWORTH. 163 

ployed in making preparations for a new edifice, sec. xii. 

25 June, 1712, was founded the fabrick of the " ^^^^ 
Old Brick ; and, on 3 May, of the succeeding 
year, it was appropriated to reHgious use.f There 
appears to have been no particular solemnity ob- 
served, on entering the church, except on the 
Lord's day ; but the records of First Church 
contain a particular account of a day, religiously 
set apart to the dedication of the Fifth Church, 
(New North,) which was first entered, as a house 
of worship, 5 April, 1714. 

On 26 September, 1715, Rev. Thomas Bridge, j-j^ 
senior pastor of the church, died. He was in 
the fifty-ninth year of his age, and the eleventh of 
his ministry in this church. He was born at 
Hackney, England ; was regularly educated ; 
became first a merchant, and afterwards a pious 
and useful minister of religion 4 He travelled 
first into the Mediterranean ; thence to America ; 
laboriously preached at several of the West India 
islands ; whence he came to Boston, and was in- 
vited to this church. He is represented, as re- 
markable for his sincerity, meekness, and humili- 
ty. He was not easily excited ; yet his patriot- 
ism was warm ; and he omitted no opportunity to 
manifest his love for the civil and religious liber= 

t The only durable relick of the Old Brick is deposited in I-'irst 
Church Vestry. It is a tliick piece of slate stone, about two feet 
long, which was taken from under a window, in the second slorj-j 
on tlie south side of the church. It contains in two lines the follow- 
ing record. 

BURND TO ASHES OCTOBr 3. iril. 
REBUILDING June 25th 1712. • 

I Eliot's Biog. 



161 BRIDGE. WADSWOHTH. 

SEC. XII. ties of the country. In the unsuccessful expedi- 
1715. tion, which, in 1707, was made against Portray- 
al, he was invited to accompany the commission- 
ers. 5 June, the church voted its consent to his 
compliance. He sailed from Boston, 5 July, 
and returned, on the 1st of September fol- 
lowing. 

Mr. Bridge was upright in his dealings, of kind 
affections, devout in his habits, and irreproachable 
in his morals.* Prayer was his gift, and the bible 
his library ; and so sincere and strong were his 
expressions of humility, that he frequently kin- 
dled a blush on the cheek of the forward young 
man, and shamed the ambitious out of their love 
of distinction. He received the degree of master 
of arts, in 1712, from Harvard college ; and his 
name is affixed to the class, which was graduated, 
' in 1675. Like his predecessors, Norton, Daven- 

port, and Oxenbridge, he made a sudden exit 
from the scene of his labours, leaving behind him 
a name, which is better than precious ointment, 
and four publications, evincing his concern for the 
cause of righteousness and the welfare of man- 
kind. 1." The mind at ease." 2. " What faith 
can do." 3. " Jethro's counsel." 4. " A ser- 
mon before the artillery company." Mr. Bridge's 
funeral sermon was preached by Dr. Colman ; 
his remains were treated with particular respect ; 
and his surviving family, for a long time, receiv- 

o ' Allen's Biography, 



BRIDGE. WADSWORTH. 165^ 

ed the sympathies and support of a generous sec. xir. 
congregation.! ins." 

In the five years, ending with 1715, one hun- 
dred and forty- six persons were admitted to 
communion, ninety-six of whom were females. 
During the same time, eighty-six boys and nine- 
ty-six girls were publickly baptized. 



t " The Rev. Mr. Thomas Bridge, a pastor of the Old Church hi 
Boston, died on Sep. 26, 1715, and was buried in Mr. Cotton's 
tomb, Sept. 29, 1715." 

" Meniorandmn. The church, having voted to defray the charge 
of the Rev. Mr. Bridge's funeral, chose to endeavour it by a 
publick contribution, on the Lord's day. This was notified, on Oct. 
2, that the contribution aforesaid would be expected, on the next 
sabbath. Accordingly, on the next sabbath, viz. Oct. 9, the contri- 
bution was, as one of the deacons told me, one hundred and ten 
pounds, five shillings and a penny. The funeral charges came to 
about 104/." 

" Memorandum. The committee aforesaid ordered Mrs. Bridge, 
our pastor's relict, forty shillings per week out of the contribution 
box, for the present, till they should give further order." First 
Church records, p. 106. 



SECTION Xlli, 

From the death of Mr. Bridge, 26 September, 1715, to the settle- 
ment of" Mr. Cluiuncy, 25 October, 1727. 

SEC. XIII. Early in the year 1717, Mr. Thomas Foxcroft 
1717. of Cambridge was invited to preach to the socie- 
ty ; and the universal approbation, he obtained, 
placed him a colleague with the surviving pas- 
tor, on the 20th of November, in the same year. 
As a specimen of the composition of a popular 
young preacher of that day, I have preserved in 
a note a copy of Mr. Foxcroft's answer* to the 
church accepting their invitation to settlement. 

* •• Cambridge, March 23, 1717. 
" To the Old or First Church in Boston. 
" Reverend, honourable, and beloved, 
«' It hath pleased the great Head of the church (who turncth the 
hearts of his people, as the rivers of waters, and doth wondrous 
things, which none can search out the reasons of,) to inchne jou to 
•make choice of so unfit a person, as myself, to settle in the office of 
a pastor to this flock. I am deeply sensible, how unwortliy I am 
of the dignity, how every way unequal to the duties of this holy cal- 
ling, which is of God excellent and difficult. As indeed who are 
sufficient of these things of themselves ? But our sufficiency is of 
God. Humbly therefore depending upon the grace of our Lord 
.lesus Christ, without whom we can do nothing, as having good 
hope in that sweet promise. Matt, xxviii. 30. " Lo, I am with 
you alway, even to the end of the world." I do now with gratitude 
and humility accept your call, as the voice of God; and do sol- 
emnly promise and resolve, if the Lord permit, and account me 
worthy, putting me into the ministry, to make it the grand study 
and cmplojTiient of my life to preach the unsearchable riches of 



VVADSWORTH. FOXCROFT. i67 

As is customary, after the settling of a new sec. xtii. 
pastor, the church had a meeting, in December, 1717. 
elected some new officers, and passed some votes 
respecting their fiscal concerns, f 

The independence of congregational churches 
in Boston has been maintained from the begin- 
ning ; and perhaps their freedom will best be 

Christ unto you, according' to the commandmeHt of the everlasting 
gx>spel, for the obedience of faith, for the perfecting of the saints, 
for the edifying of the body of Christ, so long as it shall please God 
to continue me among you , that ye might know tlie love, which I 
have more abundantly to you all. 

And now, under a just view of the importance, weiglit, and diffi- 
culty of tlie awful work of watching for souls, and feeding the flock 
of Christ, I beseech you, brethren, that ye strive together with me, 
in your prayers to God for me, that those gifts and graces may be 
multiplied upon me. In the diligent exercise whereof I may ap- 
prove myself a ready scribe, well instructed for the kingdom of 
God, and furnished to every good work ; that I may come unlo you 
with joy by the will of God, and may with you be refreshed ; that 
I may find mercy to be faithful to the interest of God's glory, and be 
wise to win souls ; that my service may be accepted of the saints, 
and tliac I may be unto God a sweet savour in Christ, that so I may 
give up my account with joy to the chief shepherd at Iiis appear- 
ing ; and the Lord grant unto us all, that we may find mercy of the 
Lord in that day. I am your affectionate 

friend and servant, 

THOMAS FOXCROFT." 
f " At a church meeting, at the meeting-house 
•' Voted, that the deacons, for tiie time being, be desired exactly 
to record, in a book or books, procured at the charge of the church, 
wliat they receive, from time to time, in their weekly and monthly 
contributions ; and also what they shall receive, at any time, as lega- 
cies or donations to the church ; and that they shall also as plainly 
record in said books, how much and to whom they disburse or pay, 
from time to time ; and also how much and to wliom of the poor of 
the church they shall give, as there is occasion, out of tlie monthly 
contribution ; that so, whenever tlie church shall see meet to ac- 
quaint themselves with these accounts, tlie state of their temporal 
affairs may the more clearly and easily appear unto them." First 
Church records, p. 108. 



168 WADS WORTH. FOXCROrT. 

SEC. XIII. preserved by keeping clear of entangling allian- 
j^j-, ces. There is however a partial coalescence 
between churches, which rather promotes, than 
hinders, the general objects of religious associa- 
tion. Some congregations, from local proximity, 
affinity of theological opinions, or other circum- 
stances, are more likely to associate, than others ; 
but such associations have no effect on the disci- 
pline or interiour regulations of individual socie- 
ties. Thus there is a certain indefinable union 
among all the congregational churches in the 
metropolis. Their ministers are united in hold- 
ing an association at each others' houses, every 
other monday, in supporting a Theological Li- 
brary, J in preaching a weekly lecture, and a 
quarterly charity lecture ; and the several con- 
gregations tacitly agree in attending these lec- 
tures and favouring these institutions. The 
First Church is united with the Fourth, the Sec- 
ond with the Fifth, and the Sixth with the Sev- 
enth, in support of a monthly lecture, attended 
commonly, on the friday, immediately preceding 
the Sunday, on which is celebrated the Lord's 
supper. The union, for this purpose, between the 
First and Fourth churches commenced, in the be- 
ginning of the year ITSO.f The lecture is 

1 This institution, which was founded, 1 June, 1807, invites 
however, and i-eceives, subscriptions from both clerg-y and laity of 
all denominations. 

f " The sacrament of tlie Lord's supper being- administered on the 
first Lord's day of every month, as in our old churcii, so in that 
neighbouring one, of wliich the Rev. Mr. Colman and Cooper are 
pastors; their church, by a letter dated January 18, 1719, made a 
motion to ours, that a lecture, on every friday, in the afternoon 



WADSWORTH. FOXCROFT. l>69 

attended in Brattle-street, and preached by the sec. xiu 
pastors of the two congregations alternately. jj^^q 
There is indeed no express warrant for such an 
exercise in the christian scriptures ; and some 
have doubted the propriety of upholding the cus- 
tom. They have alleged, that it tends to bring 
the ordinance of preaching into contempt with 
some, by making it too frequent, and that its ef- 
fect is injurious to others, by inducing a belief, 
that some unusual, peculiar preparation is neces- 
sary for commemorating the death of our Sa- 
viour. But it ought to be remembered, that an 
attendance on this lecture is by no means con- 
sidered an indispensable requisite for communion, 
on the following sunday ; and that any religious 
institution, which brings people voluntarily to- 
gether, naturally expands the mind, and can 
hardly be unfavourable to the progress of charity. 
In the case just mentioned, the effect of the lec- 
ture has been happy. It has contributed to the 
harmony of both the ministers and brethren of 
the two societies. t 

In 1725, Mr. Wadsworth was chosen presi- 172^3 
dent of Harvard college. His fiock parted with 
him reluctantly, yet amicably, not without delibe- 
ration and prayer, yet without the formality of a 

niigljtbe attended, in their meeting-house, by these two churches, 
and tlie lecture sermons be preaciicd by the ministers of both 
cliurclies. This letter was read with us, on the L(jrd's day, Feb. 
7, 1 719-20, and, after a week s time for consideration, our church, by 
a (silent) vote, complied with the motion tliey made to us. 

•' This vote, was on February 14, 1719- JO.'' First Church 
'ecords, p. 110. 

t Dr. Thacher's Genturv Discourse. 

/ 



ktO WADSWOUTH. lOXCROFT. 

SEC. xm. dismissing council. He continued to preach to 

j-r25. them in his turn, for some httle time, after he was 

installed at Cambridge ; ever afterwards enjoyed 

their friendship ; and, at his death, left a legacy 

for the poor of the church. f 

President ^Vadsworth was born at Milton, in 
1669, and graduated at Harvard college, in 1690. 
He was the first minister of this church educated 
at the neighbouring university. He was the son 
of capt. Samuel Wadsworth, who distinguished 
himself by his courage, and, in 1676, fell a victim 
to the Indian war. The president, with filial pie- 
ty, erected a monument to the bravery of his 
flitherand his valiant soldiers.* 

The powers of president Wadsworth's mind 
were rather strong,than brilliant ; and his manners 
rather grave, than animated. His memory was 
uncommonly retentive. He could easily quote 
almost any verse in the bible, without recurring 
to the page ; though he wrote his sermons with 
care, he always delivered them memoriter. In 
the office of president of the college, he wanted 
not prudence and fidelity ; but, in bodily stature 
and dignity of deportment, he was inferiour to his 
predecessor Lcverett ; nor were his science and 
literature so various and conspicuous, as preemi- 
nently to distinguish him, as the head of the uni- 
versity. Yet he was a practical, useful charac- 
ter. As a preacher, he was perspicuous and sol- 
emn ; as a pastor, watchful and exemplary ; and, 
as a christian, so liberal and exact in his charities, 

t F.C. rerords, p. 4112. * Holmes's Annuls, i. 429. 



WADSWORTH. FOXCROFT. J7^1 

as to give to the poor a tenth part of his income, sec. xiu. 
He was author of several publications.* tt^ 

This gentleman was dismissed from his pasto- 
ral office, 16 June, 1725, and from the labours of 
human life, 12 iMarch, 1737, in the 68th year of 

* 1. An artillery election sermon, 1/00. 
2. Exhortations to piety, 1702. 

y. Three sermons, entitled, Men worse in their carriage tp 
God, than one another ; Psalms sung with grace in the heart ; 
A pious tongue an enriching ireasurcj 1706. 

4. Discourses on the day of judgment, 1709. 

5. A sermon on assembling at the house of God, 1710. 

6. The weli-orriered family, 1712. 

7. Five sermons, viz. The first, on 30 September, 1711, from 
Psalm Ixxiii. 1. being the last delivered in the old meeting- 
house, which was burnt, 2 October, 1711. The second, from 
Lamentations iii. 31. at the south meeting-house in Boston, 
7 October, 1711, being the first Lord's day after the fire. The 
third, on 18 December, 1711, from Psalm xxvi. 8. being a fast 
kept by the Old Churcli, occasioned by the burning of their 
meeting-house. The fourth, on 3 May, 1713, from Ilag. ii. 9, 
being the first in the Brick meeting-house, where the former 
was burnt. The fifth, on 12 November, 1713, fromZech. iv. 7. 
A thanksgiving sermon, for tiod's goodness, in providing a new 
meeting-house for the Old Church j with a preface, giving 
some account of the fire, 2 October, 1711. 

8. Explanation of the assembly's catechism, 1714. 

9. Invitation to the gospel feast, in eleven sermons, 12mo. Saint's 
prayer to escape temptation ; a discourse on the de^th of Isaag 
Addington, 1715. 

10. Election sermon, 17". 6. 

11. Twelve single sermons on various subjects, 1717. 

12. Zeal against flagrant wickedness ; essay for spreading the 
gospel into ignorant places, I/IS. 

13. Ciirlst's fan in his hand ; Imitation of Christ, a christian 
duty, 1722. 

14. A dialogue between a minister a.id his neighbour, on the 
Lord's supper, 1724. 

15. It is honourable not shameful to suffer, 1725. 

16. The benefits of a goo^, and the mischiefs of an evil conscience 
in fourteen sermons ; None but the righteous saved, 1725. 



\12 ' WADSWORTH. FOXCHOFT. 

SEC. XIII. his age. He was minister of this church,twenty-ninc 
years, and twelve, a president of the university. 
Upon the removal of president Wadsworth to 

17 Aug. Cambridge, a fast was immediately kept by the 
congregation, and measures were taken to supply 
the vacancy with another pastor. 12 June, 1727, 
a choice was made. Of one hundred and ten 
votes given in for a minister, three were scatter- 
ed, Mr. Welsteed had forty-three, and sixty -four 
were for Mr. Chauncy, who was declared duly 
chosen, and who was ordained, on the 25th of 
October following.* At a meeting, on the sec- 
ond of that month, the brethren of the church 
passed a number of votes, preparatory to the or- 
dination, selected their council, and assigned the 
principal parts of the consecrating service. 
jjr27. During the twelve years, ending with 1727, 
two hundred and forty-one persons had been ad- 
mitted into the church, one hundred and fifty-six 
of whom were females. In the same time, four 
hundred and seventy-four children were baptized, 
two hundred and fifty-eight of whom were males. 

* " October 25, 1727, Mr. Chauncy was accordinprly ordained. 
Mr. Wadsworth being sick, and not at the ordination, Mr. Foxcroft 
began with prayer. Mr. Chauncy preached the sermon from Matt. 
xxviii. 20. Mr. Thacher prayed after the sermon. Mr. Colman 
presided, as moderator, in taking the votes, and giving the charge ; 
praying both before and after. Dr. Mather gave the fellowship of 
the churches." First Church records, 122. 



SECTION XIV. 

From the settlement of Mr. Chauncy, 25 October, 1727, to the 
death of Mr. Foxcroft, 18 June, 1769. 

"VV^E have now anived at a memorable period in si:c.xi\ 
the history of First Church. During forty-two 
years, the present pastors lived in great harmony 
with each other and their flock ; and, whoever 
has heard of the Old Brick Church in Boston, 
will find it associated, in his memory, with the 
names of Foxcroft and Chauncy. The affairs of 
the church were now in a flourishing condition. 
She saw her elder pastor unrivalled in popularity, 
as a preacher, and already marked, in his young 
colleague, the dawn of those brilliant powers, 
which were destined to enlighten and improve 
the age. 

It was during the joint ministry of these two 
men, that the church of England made her most 
strenuous exertions to introduce the forms of 
episcopacy into the provinces of Newcngland. 
These attempts were resolutely resisted by the 
divines of this metropolis, who, in the success of 
such measures, apprehended an injuiy to that re- 
ligious liberty, for which their fathers had aban- 
doned their native country, and encountered the 



1^4 POXCROFT. eUAUNCY. 

SEC. xrv. difficulties of planting this western wilderncsi. 
1729. The ministers of First Church were strongly in 
this sentiment. The elder of them, Mr. Fox- 
croft, had been educated in the episcopal church, 
and was designed for her service. But, from a 
thorough examination of the principles of Chris- 
tianity, and a research into ecclesiastical history, 
he became a sincere convert to Congregationalism. 
It was the active influence of this settled opinion, 
that drew from Mr. Foxcroft, in 1729, a publi- 
cation, entitled, *' the ruling and ordaining power 
of congregational bishops, or presbyters, defend- 
ed." This treatise was an answer to Barclay's 
Persuasive, and was written in so masterly a 
manner, as to be itself unanswerable. What 
Mr. Foxcroft was, from principle, Mr. Chauncy 
was from principle, and from constitution, and 
from the prejudices of education. His early no- 
tions of civil liberty, his theological studies and 
sentiments, and all the habits of his great mind 
were opposed to prelatical establishments. Ac- 
cordingly in the episcopal disputes, as we shall 
see, which were agitated between 1760 and 1770, 
he bore a part, that does equal honour to his pat- 
riotism and his learning. 

During the united ministry of Foxcroft and 
Chauncy, several improvements took place in the 
management of both the spiritual and fiscal con- 
cerns of the society. Until now, the church, that 
is, the male communicants, were alone concerned 
in fixing the ministers' salaries, and, in short, in 
making all pecuniary appropriations. But, in this 
vear, it was voted, that, " whenever there is occa- 



IToO. 



roxcnoFT. chauncy. \T5 

sion for money to be raised,ihe congregation be no- secxiv. 
tified to meet with the church in the doing of it." ^^ 

About this time, the question, relative to the 
enlargement of baptism, which was agitated, in 
the year sixteen hundred sixty-two, Mas again 
the subject of conversation among the clergy, and 
of discussion in their churches. At a meeting of 
First Church, 3 iMarch, the fifth proposition of ^^^l- 
the result of the synod, in the year abovemention- 
ed, was voted to be a rule in the church.* At 
the same time also, was renewed a vote of the 
church, which passed in January, one thousand six 
hundred fifty-seven, relative to the discipline to be 
exercised over the children of church members. 

The same subject, in regard to the terms of 
admitting members, which was considered, in 
1712, again solicited the attention of the brethren. 
Relations of what are called " experiences" were 
still continued in the church ; but the number of 
those, who disapproved the practice, was greater, 
than that of its advocates. Accordingly the fol- 
lowing question was proposed, 9 June, 1730, 
which, though not decided immediately, was 
finally passed in the affirmative. " Whether, in 
case any particular persons appearing, in a judg- 
ment of charity, visible saints, and offering to join 
with this church in full communion, do seriously 
scruple the practice of making a relation, as usual 
at admissions, whether, in such case, it he your 
mind, that persons shall be left to their christian 
liberty, and admitted Vv^idiout obliging tliem t© 
comply with the said custom ; provided always, 

i See Sect. IV. p. 93. 



176 . rOXCllOFT. ClIAUNCY. 

SEC. XIV. t-liat they do make a publick confession of their 

TIZ faith or beHef, and that the elders do declare their 

having received satisfaction by private examination, 

asto their knowledge and experiences in religion?" 

The salary of the ministers, for several years 
previous to this period, had been 4/. 10.y. a week, 
1731. a sum, which was found inadequate to the pur- 
pose. Towards the close of this year, several at- 
tempts were made to increase it, and, in the be- 
ijinnins: of 1732, it was raised to 6/. 

It was now, that the time of beginning divine 
service in the afternoon, on Sundays, was altered 
from 2 to 3 o'clock. This measure, which orig- 
inated in First Church, was concurred in by the 
churches in the south part of the town. 

It was the custom, in the period of which we 
are writing, for each church in the government to 
express, in some way, its sense of the doings of 
every other church. Thus the records of this 
church contain a particular account of its atten- 
tion to a pamphlet, written concerning an eccle- 
siastical dispute at Salem, of so little notoriety, as 
not to be thought worthy of mention by the his- 
torian of that town.* 

* " Lord's clay evening, March 2, 1734-5. The brethren of the 
clmrch were stayetl, and received inioimation of a printed pam- 
phlet, entitled, /\ faithfnl narrative of tiie proceedings of the ec- 
clesiastical council convened at Salem, in 1734 ; occasioned by the 
scandalous divisions in tlie first church in that town. Which pam- 
phlet was sent, superscribed to the pastors, to be communicated by 
a committee of the said council, appointed to prepare a narrative of 
their proceedings for the press, and, wlien printed, to communicate 
the same to the several cong-regational churches in the province. 
The matter was left under consideration, for a week," 

" Lord' s-day evening y March 9. Tiic brethren of the churcli, be- 
ing stayed after the publick worship, Voted,That they woukl meet, 



FOXCROFT. CHAUNCV. 177 

It had hitherto also been the usage mthis church sec. xiv. 
to hold the scats and pews, for the most part, in 1737." 

on the next Wednesday se'ennight, at 2 o'clock, p. m. in tlie meeting- 
house, to liave the abovesaid narrative communicated." 

" Wi'dnesiiay, March 9, 1734-5, 2 o'clock, p m. The church met 
in the meeting-house Then we proceeded upon the business ol" 
the meeting, the communicating of the narrative of tlie late council 
atSiilem. One of the pastors read out of it, one hour, and the other, 
for another hour. Then, tlie weather being very cold, a motion 
was made, tiiat we should adjourn to Mr.Jonathan Williams's house, 
whicli was voted. And, the bretiiren immediately repairing thither, 
we finished reading of the book, abovesaid." 

" Ui)on whicli, among ')ther matters discoursed, a considerable 
debate was had on the propriety of this church's accepting and ap- 
proving the result of a council, in which we were not represented 
by our delegates, nor so much, as invited to be present." 

" Then, upon the motion made by sundry, it was Voted, that the 
affair should lie under consideration ; and the meeting was,by vote, 
adjourned to the first Wednesday, in May next, being the 7th day 
of the month, at 3 o'clock, p. m. in the meeting-house. 

Entered pr. T. FOXCROFT." 

" Wednesday, May 7, 1735. The church met, by adjournment, 
upon the Salem affair ; but there being but a very small appearance 
of the bretiiren, by reason of a town-meeting, this day, it was 
thought proper to adjourn for some considerable time, by reason of 
the lute surprising turn of affairs in Salem, the aggrieved brethren 
having claimed to be the majority, and declared themselves to be 
. the first church in Salem. Therefore it was Voted, that this meet- 
ing he adjourned to the last Wednesday, in June next, being the 25th 
day, at .3 o'clock, p. m." 

" yune >S. The church met, and, there being but a thin appear- 
ance of the brethren, they adjourned to the next sabbath evening, 
in order to urge and procure a more general attendance." 

•* Sabbath evening, j^uue 29. Church stayed, and adjourned, till 
to-morrow, at 10 o'clock, a. m." 

" yune 30, a. in. The brethren came together more generally, 
(between fifty and sixty being present,) and, after a long debate 
upon the objection, made at the first meeting, and now renewed. 
Voted, Not to proceed any further, in the consideration of tlie Sa- 
lem affair, by a great majority. The question put both affirmative- 
ly and negatively." First Church records, pp. :34, 135. 

Thus seven meetings of the church were had for the discussion 
of a question, in which no member had any peculiar coneern. 
Y 



ir62. 



.1.78 FOXCROIT. C!IAU\CV. 

sj:c. XIV- coiniiion, and to choose a committee, every few* 
1737. years, to seat the meeting-house. This, I be- 
lieve, is still the practice in most of the religious 
societies on Connecticut river.* 

Pulpit services were not formerly so frequently 
exchanged among ministers in the Newengland 
churches, as at the present day, nor so frequently 
practised by the united presbyters of this church, 
as by those, who had no colleagues in the pastoral 
care. As they advanced in years however, they 
gladly admitted the occasional labours of other 
clergymen, not only in the desk, but in the admin- 
istration of ordinances ; yet, it seems, the measure 
was so novel, that it was thought expedient to 
sanction its propriety by a vote of the church.f 

* " 1691. Nov. 24. Voted, that our brother Parsons, and Samp- 
.son Stoddard, and brother Brown do exercise church power in seat- 
ing- persons in the meeting-house." 

" April 2, '^713 At a meeting- of the church, Voted, that Dr. 
Cook, colonel Hutchinson, Mr. Addingtnn, Mr. Eliakim Hutchin- 
son, colonel Townsend, Mr. Welsteed, Mr. Jeremiah Allen, Mr. 
Gouch, be seaters of the new meeting-house, now built, and that it 
be left to their prudence and discretion to dispose of seats and 
jiews, as, tlicymay think, will be most for the good and welfare of 
the church and congregation." First (;hh. R. p. 104. 

f " Miiy 2, 1762. After the administration of the ordinance of 
the supper, this day, I proposed it to the ciiurch, in consid- 
eration of the Ilev. Mr. Foxcroft's being taken off' from his publick 
labours, for the present, and in order to prevent inconveniences, in 
case of my being indisposed, or occasionally from home, on the 
Lord's day, that any of our ordained ministers, in regular standing, 
niig-ht, without offence, be desired, agreeably to the platform and 
the usage of other churches of the congregational denomination in 
this province, as there was need of it, to administer either of the sa- 
craments, when the church is assembled for publick worship ; Vo- 
ted, without any difficulty or objection, that this proposal be com- 
plied with, and that other pastors, in regular standing, may, as there 
is need of it, administer the Lord's supper to this church, or bap- 
tism to their children. CHARLES CHAUNCY." F.C.Rec, 



FOXCUOIT. CIIAUNCY. \T9 

On 18 June, 1769, died Rev. Thomas Fox- sfx. xiv. 
croft, senior pastor of the church, lie had lived, j^^g 
almost seventy-three years, fifty-tuo of which he 
had spent in the ministry. He was critically 
skilled in the greek language, a theologian of 
some excellence, and the author of many sermons 
in print. The follovving is the most correct list 
of his publications, I have been able to obtain, 

1. A sermon at his own ordination, 1718. 

2. A sermon on kindness, 1720. 

3. A sermon on the death of his mother, 1721. 

4. A sermon on the death of l.\v. John Corey, 1722. 

5. A sermon on the death of dame Bridget Usher, 1723. 

6. A sermon on the death of George I. 1727. 

7. A sermon on the death of Hon. Penn Tovrnsend. 

8. A sermon on the death of Rev. William Waldron. 

9. A sermon on the death of Rev. John Williams, 1729. 

10. A sermon on the death of Thomas Blowers. 

1 1. A sermon on the death of Benjamin Wadsworth, 1737. 

12. Essay on the state of the dead, 1722. 

13. The day of a godly man's death better, Sec. 1722^ 

14. Duty of the godly to be intercessors. Sec. 

1 5. Two sermons showing how to begin the year, Sec. 

16. God's face set against an incorrigible people, 1724. 

17. Sermon at the ordination of Rev. John Lowell, 1726, 

18. Discourse preparatory to the choiceof aminifster, 1727^ 
1^. A discourse on death, 

20. A discourse on the earthquake. 

2 1. A discourse at the ordination of Rev.John Taylor, 1 728. 

22. Answer to Mr. T. Barclay's Persuasive, 8cc. 1729. 

23. Century sermon containing history, ebservationsj Sec. 

1730. 

24. Pleas of gospel impenitents refuted. 

25. Divine right of deacons, 1731. 

26. Sermon to a young woman,under sentence of death, 1733. 

27. A sermon occasioned by the labours and visits oi 

Mr. Whitfield, 1740. 



180 FOXOHOl'T. CriAUNCY. 

SEC XIV ^^" ■'^ sermon at a private family meeting, 1742. 

29. An apology for Mr. Whitfield, 1745. 

1769. 3fj^ Saints' united confession in despair of their own 
righteousness, 1750. 

31. Like precious faith obtained by all, 8cc. 1756. 

32. Thanksgiving sermon for the conquest of Canada, 

1760. 

In the early part of life, Mr. Foxcroft was a 
captivating preacher ; but, in the year 1736, he 
received a paralytick shock, which obscured the 
lustre of those talents, which, until then, had pro- 
cured him great and merited applause. He sus- 
tained the character of an eminent christian, and 
religiously performed the duties of the various 
stations, which he filled. 

During these forty-two years, one hundred and 
eighty-one persons had been admitted members 
of the church, fifty-three of whom were males,and 
one hundred and twenty-eight females. In the 
same time, one thousand and forty -nine children 
were baptized, five hundred and forty-four of 
whom were males, and five hundred and five 
were females. 

Other transactions of the church in this period 
might here be penned ; but it is needless to 
multiply records, which have no peculiar nor 
striking characteristicks. I therefore drop the 
chain of ecclesiastical notices, relating to the time 
of Foxcroft and Chauncy, and enter on a review 
of the writings, life, and character of the latter. 



SECTION XV. 

From the death of Rev. Thomas Foxcroft, 18 Jvine, 1769, to thu 
settlement of Rev. John Clarke, 8 July, 1778.* 

IT HERE facts are merely to be recorded, or a 
concatenation of events related, the plodding pen 
of industry may execute the task. But fully to 
develop the powers of a great man, to trace the 
manner of their edification, and to note at once, 
sufficiently and impartially, their beneficial influ- 
ences on the community is an arduous and 
difficult employment. It is therefore with a 
trembling hand, that I undertake to sketch the 
eminent and various merits of the late reverend 
and learned doctor Chauncy. That this article 
of biography should not have been finished, as it 
was begun, by the colleague, whom he elected 
and loved, my immediate predecessor, I have ever 
considered a misfortune to the cause of letters 
and of rational Christianity. It is vain however 
to deplore irremediable evils. I shall now use the 
best means, I can command, to supply this defi- 
ciency, and trust to the good will of my friends, 
and the superiour diligence of my successours, to 
correct m}^ mistakes. 

The subject of this memoir was born at Bos- 
ton, 1 January, 1705. He was son of Mr. Charles 

* This section, as will be seen, the author did not live to com- 
plete. Ed. 



SEC. XV 



1&2 CHAUNCY. 



1730. 



SEC. XV. Chauncy, a merchant from England, who was 
" the youngest child of Rev. Isaac Chauncy, pas- 
tor of a church in London, who was the eldest of 
six sons of the venerable and reverend Charles 
Chauncy, formerly president of Harvard college. 
At the age of seven years, Mr. Chauncy lost his 
father. Into whose care he then fell, and bv whom 
he was prepared for the university, I have never 
been able to leain. He entered college, at twelve, 
and became master of arts, at nineteen years old. 
But where he resided, and under whose direction 
he studied, during the time of his leaving col- 
lege, until he became a preacher, is also un- 
known. 

The time and manner of his induction to the 
pastoral office have already been noted. Until 
some time after his ordination, nothing occurred 
of an extraordinary nature. His early efforts, as 
a preacher, seem to have excited nothing like 
rapture in the breasts of his friends, or extreme 
aversion in the minds of his dissentients. 

The first publication of Mr. Chauncy M^as 
made, in the fourth year after his settlement. It 
is on the death of Mrs. Sarah Byefield, which 
happened, 21 December, 1730. It is prefaced, 
after the custom of those days, by a dedication of 
the author to the honourable and bereaved con- 
sort, and is founded on that passage in James iv. 
14. " For what is your life ? It is even a va- 
pour, that appeareth, for a little time, and then van- 
isheth away." After a short and easy introduc- 
tion, the author proposes to consider, first, the 
representation, that is here given us of man's life ; 



CHAUNCY. 183 

and, secondly, to show, what influence such a rep- sec. xv 
resentation ought to have upon us. This clear ^^ 
and happy division of his subject is clearly and 
happily discussed. There appears no peculiar 
aptitude in the choice of die text, as the deceas- 
ed was neither young nor very old. Nor is 
there any ease of transition between the body of 
the sermon and the character suffixed. These 
faults however, if such they may be called, are 
expiated by the variety of useful reflections, which 
enrich the discourse. 

Early in the year 1732, Mr. Chauncy gave 
another sermon to the publick, on the subject of 
early piety, occasioned by the death of Miss 
Elizabeth Price, a young lady of seventeen years 
old. The text is Psalm cxix. 9. " Wherewith 
shall a young man cleanse his way ? By taking 
heed thereto, according to thy word." A squeam- 
ish critick might be as dissatisfied with the 
choice of his text, as with that of the preceding. 
But whoever looks for a curious taste, in this 
writer, respecting words, will surely be disap- 
pointed. It was the intention of the preacher to 
recommend early piety, and to show, that the 
holy scriptures are the best guide to the perform- 
ance of that duty. Contrary to the usual manner 
of funeral discourses, he delineates the character 
of the deceased under the first head of the dis- 
course. 

In the following year, our author published 
another funeral sermon, occasioned by the death 
of his friend, judge Byefield. Like his perform- 
ances in general, it is strongly marked by sinceri- 



18 i CHAUXCV. 

S!ic. XV. ty, piety, and good sense ; but it displays no cf- 
1733. ^^^'^^ ^^ fi"^ writing, or an attempt to improve the 
style of compositions, at that time fashionable. 
The fact is, Mr. Chaimcy had no taste for rheto- 
rical studies. So little versed in poetry was he, 
that he is said to have wished, somebody would 
translate the Paradise Lost of Milton into prose, 
that he might understand it. He loved nature, 
simplicity, and truth, and looked upon the art of 
rhetorick, rather as an inflamer of the passions 
and a perverter of reason, than as an instrument 
of good to mankind. His aversion indeed was so 
rooted towards the noisy and foaming fanaticks of 
his time, and his attachment so strong to Taylor, 
Tillotson, and writers of that stamp, that, in the 
company of intimate friends, as is reported of 
him, he would sometimes beseech God never to 
make him an orator. One of his acquaintances, 
now living, hearing this report, remarked, that 
his prayer was unequivocally granted. Yet I 
have been informed, by one of his hearers, who 
is an excellent judge of sermons, that Dr. Chaun- 
cy Avas by no means an indifferent speaker, that 
his emphases were always laid with propriety, 
often with happy effect ; and that his general 
manner was that of a plain, earnest preacher, so- 
licitous for the success of his labours. He ordi- 
narily entered on his task, whether of composing 
or delivery, apparently without much nerve, as a 
labourer commences his daily toil, uttering a 
deal of common truths in a common way. But 
he had always a design, which he kept clearly 



CHAUNCY. 185 

and steadily in view, until it was prudent!}' imd sf/ r.w. 
thorouo-hiv executed. ~~ 

In 1734, he preached before the ancient and 
honourable artilleiy company. The sermon is 
preserved in the library of the Historical Society, 
and, like other of his works, reveals a clear head, 
a full mind, and an honest heart. 

The next sermon, published by Mr. Chauncy, 
was in 1737, on the death of deacon Jonathan 
Williams. It seems to have been well suited to 
the occasion, and is written with no small portion 
of mental vigour. 

In 1739, Mr. C. published a sermon on reli- 
gious compulsion, which is hi the Theological Li- 
brary. It contains the principal arguments, 
which, in both hemispheres, have often and suc- 
cessfully been used for promoting freedom of in- 
quiry, and the right of private judgment, in mat- 
ters of religion. At the time however, in which 
this sermon was delivei-ed, it must have appeared 
to great advantage, as the arguments against in- 
tolerance, here used, were by no means so com- 
mon, as at this day. In this, as in almost every 
peiformance of our author, there is apparently an 
utter carelessness in the choice of words. He 
seems habitually to have taken such, as first offer- 
ed themselves, sufficiently expressive indeed of 
his ideas, but sometimes such, as no dictionary con- 
tained. In this sermon also are urged the usual 
arguments for attending on the Lord's supper. 

In 1741, Mr. C. published a sermon on the 
death of Mrs. Lucy Waldo, which is in the li- 
brary of Harvard college. 



1B6 (IIAUNCY. 

si-.f \:v. Ill the same year too, he publi^^lied a senuon on 
i?4i. '''^' "*^^^' Cleat lire, which I have not been able to 
find. 

He likewise published, in this year, a sermon 
on an unbridled ton.i^ne, wJVich, though not writ- 
ten seeming-ly with much care, yet contains some 
eloquent passages. Some persons, not very 
- friendly to our author, have remarked, that he 
was a proper person to preaeh against an unbri- 
dled tongue, as, from his occasional hastiness and 
strength of expression, he experimentally knew 
its disadvantages. But he certainly wrote in the 
mildest strain ; and his most watchful adversa- 
ries were never able to detect, in his publications, 
a single intemperate or unguarded sentence. 
IT42. In 1742, Mr. C. published a sermon on the 
outpouring of the Holy Ghost. In this excellent 
discourse may be found the following sentiment, 
tiiat the extraordinary effusions of the Holy 
Ghost did not make the subjects of them better 
men. This undoubtedly is a correct notion, and 
had been advanced by Whichcote and other en- 
glish divines ; but it was a novel sentiment 
amorig- american theologians, when Chauncy ut- 
tered it, and would by many be received with 
distrust, at the present day. At the same time, it 
is remarkable, that this sermon contains senti- 
ments, which would now be thought calvinistick, 
and which, one would think, could hardly be 
rtconciled with what is taught in the sermon on 
the various gifts of ministers. 

The last mentioned discourse was preached 
' previously to that upon the Holy Ghost, and pub- 



CH.VVNCY. 187 

lishcd, inllie same year. It has been said, that, in secxa*. 
this discourse, Mr. C. put forth the greatness of ~„^^' 
his strength. It is a noble effort, and has senten- 
ces, and even paragraphs, which \vould do hon- 
our to the understanding and affections of any 
minister in Christendom. 

In the same year, 1742, he pubHshed a sermon 
on enthusiasm, which is also one of his powerful 
and happy productions. It was the first per- 
formance, in which he affixed to his name the ti- 
tle of the doctorate in divinity, which he, this year, 
received from the university of Edinburgh. He 
was now thirty-seven years of age. The times 
called for the decision and energies of such a 
mind, as Chauncy's ; and he shrunk not fiom 
fulfilling the task, which providence assigned 
him. A set of fanatical men, at this time, appear- 
ed, assuming to themselve:: the power and right 
of judging who, among the ministers of Neweng- 
land, were converted, and who not. Of these 
high pretenders to a kind of inspiration, one of 
the foremost was Mr. James Davenport of 
Southhold, on Longisland. To this man, whilst 
on a visit to Boston, Dr. C. addressed a letter of 
close examination and sharp rebuke, and prefixed 
it to his sermon on enthusiasm. The doctor's 
character was now fixed. He had entirely and 
honourably committed himself to serve the cause 
of enlightened and pure religion, in opposition to 
the heats and phrensies, then prevalent in the 
country. Of course he was denominated, by 
field preachers and their adherents, the great 



1.38 CIIAlNLY. 

aF,c. \v. " opposcr." Dr. C. was an acutL and diligent 
~jTT^ observer of all their movements, and, througli nu- 
merous and intelligent correspondents, in various 
parts, came at a perfect knowledge of their inten- 
tions, measures, and effects. 

With the same design of resisting, if possible, 
ir4J. the torrent of fanaticism, which was threatening 
to overwhelm the country, as that, with which he 
Avrote and published his sermon on " enthusi- 
asm," he published, in this year, an account of the 
french prophets, in a letter to a friend. Indeed 
he left no reputable means untried to convince 
the more intelligent part of the community, that 
religion consists not in a heated fancy, in a set of 
ardent phrases, in hearing a multitude of ser- 
. mons, or merely saying many prayers, but in a 
pure heart and a beneficent life. 

In accomplishing this purpose, the work, which 
cost him the greatest pains, which made the 
greatest clamour among the enthusiasts of the 
day, and which perhaps, at this time, is account- 
ed one of the most powerful antidotes to theolog- 
ical empiricism, in the country, was his " Seas- 
onable thoughts on the state of religion in New- 
england, a treatise in five parts. I. Faithfully 
pointing out the things of a bad and dangerous 
tendency, in the late and present religious ap- 
pearance in the land. II. Representing the obli- 
gations, which lie upon the pastors of these 
cluirches in particular, and upon all in general, to 
use their ende-.ivours to suppress prevailing disor 
clers ; with the great danger of a neglect in so 



CIIAUNCY.i 181) 

important a matter. III. Opening in many in- sec. xv. 
stances, wherein the discouragers of irregularities ~; 
h..ve been injuriously treated. IV. Shewing 
what ought to be corrected, or avoided, in testi- 
fying against the evil things of the present day. 
V. Directing our thoughts more positively to 
what may be judged the best expedients, to pro- 
mote pure and undefiled religion in these times. 
With a preface, giving an account of the antino- 
mians, familists, and libertines, who infected these 
clunclics, above an hundred years ago ; very 
needful for these days ; the like spirit and er- 
rouis prevailing now, as did then. The whole 
being intended and calculated to serve the inte- 
rest of Christ's kingdom." 

The title page of this work, which is here care- 
fully copied, sufficiently gives the character "of its 
design. Mr. Whitfield, who visited this country, 
in 1740, had produced a strong sensation of a re- 
ligious nature in the people on the seaboard, from 
Maine to Georgia. This distinguished and very 
popular man was followed, in his itinerating ca- 
reer, by Messrs. Tennent, Davenport, and others, 
who had all the zeal of their leader, without his 
talents, and all his assurance, without his address. 
The young european methodist had a most sono- 
rous and commanding voice, and this, united with 
a ready utterance, and captivating attitudes, se- 
cured him a world of admirers. The minds of 
the people became highly excited. They were 
no longer satisfied with the cool and moderate 
strain of preaching, practised by the generality of 
the Newcngland ministers. They had gotten a 



190 CHAUNCY. 

SEC. XV. taste for a loose, incoherent kind of sermons, 
1743 which contained strong appeals to their imagina- 
tion and senses. These they must have, and af- 
ter them the}^ would go. Had the itinerants, who 
followed, preceded Whitfield, probably the 
country might have remained quiet. But men, 
who were incapable of raising the tempest, were 
able, by means of dust and rubbish, to continue 
the troubled state of the atmosphere. All the 
country was agitated. A variety of disorders 
were the consequence. Some ministers indeed 
there were, who secretly and openly favoured 
these, what they called, revivals of religion, and 
zealously cooperated with Mr. Whitfield and his 
friends, invited them into their pulpits, and either 
published or wrote in their behalf. Among the 
I clergy of this description were Messrs. Moodey 
of York, Emerson of Maiden, and Bliss of 
Concord. The first was great-grandfather, the 
two last grandfathers of the writer of this tract. 
Many there were, who, though dissatisfied with 
the conduct of these itinerants, yet durst not 
openly condemn it. Their opposition was se- 
cret, for fear of the people. But others came 
forward manfully, in defence of what they deem- 
ed rational and true religion, and testified their 
disapprobation of the prevalent disorders of the 
day. At the head of this class was Dr. Chaun- 
cy ; and the principal engine, he constructed for 
the purpose, was the work noiv under notice. 

The story of the early spiead of antinomianism 
in this country, with which he introduces the 
work, is interesting to every lover of american 



ClIAUNCY. lyi 

history as well, as to divines. He could hardly sec.xv. 
have better described, with the aid of inspiration, jj.^., 
the temper and conduct of modern enthusiasts, 
than he has described them, in the practice of the 
aniinoniians of his own days. Thoroughly un- 
derstanding the temper of his opponents, he 
knew what, and how much, to concede to them. 
He was familiar with their pretences and devices, 
and frequently detected them in crrours, where 
they felt themselves safe. 

In p. 252, he gives a specimen of his power of 
sarcasm, which is nowise contemptible. It was 
urged by the friends of Mr. Whitfield, that 
" there is no good effect of the preaching of un- 
converted ministers." " If by unconverted 
ministers," says Dr. C. " be meant such, as have 
been guilty of the most filthy uncleanness, under 
the highest aggravations, the preaching of such 
has not been without good eftect, even according 
to the mind of those, who make this objection. 
For, it is generally known of a famous preacher, 
horribly guilty in this kind, and proved to have 
been so, and deposed from the ministry on this 
account, that the effect of his preaching, in the 
extraordinaries of the present day, equalled, for a 
time, all that the most noted among our new 
])reachers could pretend to. He so preached, as 
to be flocked after by multitudes of all sorts, and, 
so far as shrieking, and screaming, and falling 
down, and being in ag(3nies of distress, or rap- 
tures of joy, are a sign of the good effect of 
preaching, he might compare with any for the 
evidences of it. But he was a converted minister 



192 CllAL'NCV. 

SKG.xv. in the opinion of the people ; and there have not 
,_,„~ been, it is true, these extraordinaries followina: 

17 V)- 'J 

the word preached by those, called unconverted, 
though they hope, notwithstanding, they have not 
laboured altogether in vain." 

The first part of this work is that, which cost 
its author the most labour, and which left the 
deepest impression. It was to expose, in a 
strong light, the errour of many prevalent doc- 
trines, and the falsehood of many round asi^er- 
tions, which were continually in the mouths of 
the fanatical tribe. To this end he made copious 
extracts from Baxter, Gurnall, Stillingfleet, and 
even Flavel ; and, out of the mouths of these pi- 
ous and orthodox divines, condemned their ex- 
travagant rantings and abominable censoriousness. 

These rantings and censures and irregular 
preachings of the itinerants, and the swoonings 
and screams of their converts, were acknowledg- 
ed, by the sober part of the christian community, 
to be imprudencies. But the Dr. superiour to 
hypocrisy, and fearless of the wrath of his adver- 
saries, insisted on coming out and calling them 
by their right name, " things of a bad and dan- 
gerous tendency." 

It was alleged by the new converts of that day, 
and by their friends, that too much was expected 
of them. Dr. C. replied, that it was not expect- 
ed, they would act like angels ; but it was expect- 
ed, they would act like rational beings. 

President Edwards stated, that, " as the influ- 
ences of the Spirit were new and extraordinary, so 
it was to be expected, that those, who were the 



I 



CIIAUNCY. 19; 

subjects of them, would be likely to run into ex- skc xv. 
travagance." Dr.C. replies, " The pretence, that 1743 
they arc new and extraordinary, will not do. 
The true account to be given of the prevalent 
mistakes is not their newness ; but a notorious 
errour, as to the way and manner of judging in 
this matter." President E. still urged, that, 
" under lively impressions of the Spirit's influ- 
ence, persons would be likely to speak and act 
with great earnestness and vigour," &:c. Dr. C. 
answers, " Occasional excesses and weakness are 
to be overlooked ; but the w^onder is, how an ex- 
traordinary discovery of the greatness and excel- 
lency of God, the importance of eternal things, 
the preciousness of souls, and the danger of their 
perishing, should make men vain and conceited, 
full of themselves, and apt to throw contempt 
upon others." 

President Edwards remarks, " It is no wonder, 
if we have some irregularities, because Satan ex- 
erts himself now more powerfully, than ever." 
Dr. C. concedes readily, " that Satan has had a 
great hand in fomenting these disorders, and 
therefore thinks, that, instead of contriving excu- 
ses for them, they and their author ought to be 
resisted more courageously." 

Having prepared the way, in the first part of 
his work, by stating distinctly, what things were 
of a bad and dangerous tendency, and proving, 
that they were so, our author proceeds, in the 
conclusion, to call upon christians in general, and 
christian ministers in particular, for their indus- 
trious aid in the suppression of these disorders. 

A A 



l-.M. CIIALXCV. 

SEC. XA-. He exhorts them not to be deterred by idle fears. 
Z7., nor reproaches, nor anv sort of injurious treat- 
ment, froni correcting as far, as may be in their 
powei-, what ought to be corrected, and avoiding 
what ought to be avoided. Whatever may be 
the theological sentiments of the reader of this 
book, he will acknowledge, if he be a man of dis- 
cernment, that it develops strong powers of reas- 
oning, and an intimate acquaintance with the 
religious condition of the country, at the time of 
its publication. Of course it had a most exten- 
sive circulation ; it is in the library of almost ev- 
ery american divine ; and, even now, perused 
with pleasure and improvement by all the lovers 
of rational religion. 
iMi. • In 1744, Dr. Chauncy published a sermon, 
which he delivered at the installation of Mr. 
Thomas Frink, on 1 Tim. iv. 16. " Take heed 
unto thyself and to thy doctrine ; and continue 
in them ; for, in doing this, thou shalt save both 
thyself and them, that hear thee." Without any 
exordium, he comes directly upon the subject, 
and iirst describes the duty of ministers to take 
heed to themselves and their doctrine ; and, sec- 
ondly, enforces the powerful motive, suggested 
by the text. His great object is to be useful ; 
and, that he may be useful, he takes care to be 
intelligible. With all his zeal against falsehood, 
he proposes truth in an unobtrusive manner, and 
endeavours to expose the errours of fanaticks, 
without injuring their feelings. 

In tlie same year, he preached the convention 
scrmf)n before the congregational ministers of 



CHAUXCY. 19; 

Massachusetts. In this masterly pei lormance, he 
cautions his brethren in the ministry against the 
occasions of contempt from those words in Titus 
ii. 15. "Let no man despise thee." Well aware 
of the power of opinion, he urges on ministers the 
importance of securing it in their favour, that they 
may be useful in the world. " Are we content," 
says he, " to live useless ? Are we willing to go 
on in a round of attending the duties of our call- 
ing, and do no good ?" With great plainness and 
pungency he presses home his subject upon the 
consciences of his hearers, and leaves this impres- 
sion upon the mind of his reader, that, whether 
the author himself were loved or hated, he could 
not be despised. 

In the same year, the Dr. addressed a letter to 
Rev. George Whitfield, publickly calling on him 
to defend his conduct, or confess his faults. 

In 1745, he addresi^ed a second letter to the 1745 
same person. I have never seen either of these 
performances ; but it is thought, that the exer- 
tions of Dr. C. in opposing the fanaticism, exci- 
ted by Mr.W. and others, were serviceable to the 
cause of rational religion. 

In the last mentioned year also, he gave to the 
publick a sermon, which he preached, on a day of 
thanksgiving, appointed in grateful and pious 
commemoration of the reduction of Cape Breton. 

Another sermon, this year, he published on the 
death of Mr. Cornelius Thayer, one of the dea- 
cons of his church. So he took for his subject 
the character of Cornelius, and for his text, the 
notice taken of him in Acts x. I, 2. It is a plain. 



196 tlllAUNCY. 

sr.c XV. s(Misible discourbc, written with no art and little 

1745. eftbrt, yet instructive and consolatory. In de- 
scribing the character of Cornelins, the Dr. says, 
" \\^hat he gave away in alms to the poor was his 
Qvvn, not the property of his creditors. He did 
not defraud one man, that he might exercise 
charity towards another ; much less did he think 
of atoning for his injustice by being boinitiful 
to the necessitous." 

On 6 February, 1746, the Dr. preached the 

1746. thursday lecture, and prepared a discourse on 
the existing rebellion, in favour of the pretender, 
which was soon afterwards published. It con- 
tains an historical account of that event, and is 
enriched with valuable notes. After discussing 
the passage of scripture, selected as the text, he 
applies the subject to the political event, which 
had created a strong sensation through every part 
of the kingdom. He first takes notice of the de- 
sign, formed against the king and the nation, then 
represents it, as altogether nefarious, in its natural 
tendency and moral aspects, and lastly encourages 
his hearers to hope, that so wicked a plot will be 
frustrated by a God of order and righteousness. 
Throughout the discourse, the author shows him- 
self to be a true patriot as well, as a good chris- 
tian ; and that lie had carefully attended to both 
the politicks and the religion of his country. 

In 1747, Dr. C. preached the election sermon, 
His text is 2 Sam. xxiii. 3. In this, as in every 
discourse, our author comes almost immediatciv 
to the main object, which he has in view. He 
never fatigues his hearer with a tedious introduc- 



CHAUNCV. 197 

tion, which, for any connexion it holds with the six:. \^ . 
sul^ject, might as Avell have been omitted, as de- ^^^ 
livered ; but usually prefaces the statement of 
his design with a few pertinent and luminous re- 
marks. Tiie plan of this discourse is to show, I . 
•' There is a certain order among mankind, ac- 
cording to which, some are intrusted with power 
to rule over others. II. Those, who rule over 
others, must be just, ruling in the fear of God." 
The former of these heads he speedily and prop- 
erly despatches. Under the latter, he distinctly 
notices the various instances, which demand the 
interposition of an equitable ruler. They must 
be just in their private capacity, just in the use of 
their power, in the laws,by which they govern, in 
the execution of those laws, in the payment of 
debts due from the publick, in m.aintaining the 
liberties and privileges of the subject, in defend- 
ing the state, and preserving its peace and safety, 
and, finally, in promoting the general welfare and 
prosperity of a people. In dilating on that topick, 
in which the Dr. said, that rulers ought to be 
just " in maintaining the liberties and privileges 
of the subject," he takes occasion to plead the 
cause of his professional brethren, who had suf- 
fered severely, through the fluctuations of the 
medium. He then enforces upon rulers the duty 
of equity, upon a principle of piety, and exhibits 
the certainty, uniformity, and excellence of that 
principle, in a very striking point of light. The 
whole is closed with addresses to both rulers and 
people, on the subject of righteousness between 
man and man, in such pungent language, as 



198 CIIAUNCY. 

SEC. XV. could not fail of producing an extraordinary ef- 
1747. feet. *' And will you," says the Dr. " our hon- 
oured rulers, by any positive acts, or faulty neg- 
lects, suffer yourselves to be instrumental in the 
continuance of such a state of things ? God for- 
bid ! You are, my fathers, accountable to that 
God, whose throne is in the heavens, in common 
with other men. And his eyes behold your con- 
duct in your publick capacity ; and he sees and 
observes it, not merely as a spectator, but an al- 
mighty righteous judge ; one, who enters all up- 
on record, in order to a reckoning day. And a 
day is coming, it lingers not, when you shall all 
stand upon a level with the meanest subjects, 
before the tremendous bar of the righteous judge 
of all the earth, and be called upon to render an 
account, not only of your private life, but of your 
whole management, as intrusted with the con- 
cerns of this people." 

This is a specimen of a strain, long continued, 
in which the Dr. reproved many of his hearers, 
for legislating in a manner, which injured exces- 
sively the morals of the province. Some indeed 
were so piqued on the occasion, that they hesita- 
ted and debated in court, whether, according to 
custom, they should print the sermon. Of this 
fact Dr. C. was informed. He sharply replied, 
" It shall be printed, whether the general court 
print it or not. And do you, sir," addressing him- 
self to his informant, " say from me, that, if I 
wanted to initiate and instruct a person into all 
kinds of iniquity and double dealing, I would 
send him to our general court." 



CHAUNCY. 1 9« 

Such was the righteous zeal of a man, whose sec. xv 
indignation against wrong could never be sup- ^^^^ 
pressed ; and whose lofty sense of right nothing 
could bring down ; who had no sympathy for 
knaves and hypocrites ; who loved and cherished 
the civil and religious liberties of his country 
with an ardour bordering on enthusiasm ; who 
was never carried away by a wild imagination, or 
weak credulity ; who was conversant rather 
with facts, than fables, with principles, than feel- 
ings, and with arguments, than words. If this 
man had not taste, it was the fiuilt of his age, or 
of his education ; there was no deficiency in intel- 
lect or feeling. He had a fiiir, sound, well bal- 
anced mind, which saw every thing through a 
correct medium, and reported truly the results of 
its investigations. 

In 1749, Mrs. Anna Foxcroft, wife of Rev. 

1749. 

T. Foxcroft, died. Dr. C. preached and pub- 
lished a sermon from those words in Rev.xiv.13. 
" I heard a voice," &c. He first describes the 
persons, pronounced blessed ; then notices the 
time, when their blessedness begins ; and, lastly, 
specifies the instances, in which they are blessed. 
The application to the case of the deceased is 
respectful to her memory and the feelings of sur- 
vivers. It is said, that Dr. C. believed in a qui- 
escent state of the soul, between death and the 
resurrection. The contrary would be thought 
his opinion from perusing this discourse. 

About the year 1750, there was formed a so- ^^^„ 

. . 1/52- 

ciety for encouraging industry, and employing 
the poor. Before this society Dr. Chauncy, in 



17J-i. 



2'JO CHAL.NCV. 

SEC. XV i752, preached a sermon from 2 Thess. iii. 10. 

"~:, — " This we commanded you, that, if any would not 
work, neither should he eat." The Dr. first as- 
CLitains the sense of the command ; in the next 
place, justifies ; and, lastly, applies it. It is a 
g-ood sermon, and shows him to be well acquain- 
ted with human nature, and firmly attached to 
the welfare of the political community, to which 
lie belonged. 

In 1754, Dr. C. published a sermon on the 
horrid nature and enormous guilt of murder, 
which he had preached, at the thursday lecture, 
the day, when a malefactor was executed. He 
first explains the crime of murder, excepting from 
it accidental killing, killing in self-defence, in just 
and necessary war, and those, who are sentenced 
to die by the laws of the country ; and, second- 
ly, enforces the command in the text. He repre- 
sents, in strong and lively colours, the guilt of the 
sin, of which he speaks, and is more pathetick 
and animated, than usual, in the close of the dis- 
course. 

In this, as in every small as well, as lar- 
ger work of Dr. C. it is worthy of observation 
to see, how desirous he is to be useful. You 
find him ever endeavouring, by his labours, to in- 
crease, both his own and his neighbour's activity ; 
to multiply instruments of light and comfort to 
mankind ; and to promote, in himself and others, 
a useful and beneficent life. 
,,-^ On the morninar of 18 November, 1755, the 

inhabitants of Boston, and of all the northern and 
middle states of North America, were surprised 



CIIAUNCV. 201 

with the most violent shock of an earthquake, that sf.c.xv. 
ever was experienced, in this part of the world. [755" 
Many houses were shattered, hundreds of chim- 
nies were thrown down, walls broken, and huge 
chasms made in various parts of the earth. It 
lasted, about three minutes. On the Sunday fol- 
lowing this terrible event, the Dr. preached a 
sermon from Job ix. 5. 6. on earthquakes being 
a token of the divine anger. He shows, first, that 
these convulsions proceed from the First Cause ; 
and, secondly, that he ordinarily causes them, in 
testimony of his righteous anger. In dilating 
upon the second part of the subject, he takes no- 
tice of those sins, which may have provoked the 
anger of God, and particularizes unclcanness, sab- 
bath-breaking, pride, unrighteousness, drunken- 
ness, enmity to Christ, and ill-treatment of him. 

In the same year, he published a letter, relating 
to the Ohio defeat. It appears to have been writ- 
ten to a friend in England, where it was reprinted. 
Dr. C. proves himself to have been well acquain- 
ted with the american politicks of his own times, 
and a warm defender of the honour of Newengland. 

He wrote also, this year, a particular narrative 
of the defeat of the french army, at lake George, 
in a letter to a friend. 

In 1756, Dr. C. preached and published a ser- 
mon, on the earthcjuakes in Spain, entitled, " The 
earth delivered from the curse, to which it is at 
present subjected," from those words, in Rev. 
xxii. 3. " And there shall be no more curse." 
This sermon contains a good variety of sentiment 
as well, as of curious theological speculation. The 

BB 



202 (JIIAUNCV. 

SEC. XV. ^^"- thought, with most of the divines of his day. 
jTT^ that the earth underwent a great aheration, in con- 
sequence of tlie fail of Adam ; and, to the present 
disordered and troublous condition of our world, 
lie opposes that paradisaical state, in which man 
no longer shall be a sufferer. He is of opinion, 
that the seasons, soil, climate, and bowels of the 
earth have all been cursed in such a manner, as 
to be different from what they were before the 
lapse of Adam, and that the who'e constitution of 
nature has been chany-ed for the worse. The 
final cause of this curse, he believes, to be the 
ultimate good of mankind. And, having served 
the generations, as a scene of trial, he holds, that 
it will revert to its pristine order, beauty, and 
loveliness, and be the heavenly residence of vir- 
tuous men. Having quoted a number of texts 
in support of this hypothesis, he concludes, " It 
should seem very plain therefore, that the new 
heavens and new earth, so particularly spoken of, 
both by the apostle Peter, and the apostle John, 
are this w orld of ours brought back to its paradi- 
saick state, or one that is better ; and that the 
ver}^ world, we now live in, thus changed and 
made new, is the place, where good men, after 
the resurrection and judgment, shall live and 
reien with Christ forever and ever." 

In 1757, Dr. C. published the sermon, which 
^'^^' he preached, the Sunday after the death of Mr. 
Edward Gray. The subject is " Deeds of char- 
ity rewarded at the judgment day with everlasting 
blessedness." And the text is Matt. xxv. 34, 
"5, 40. It is a plain, sensible discourse, but un- 
doubtedlv written calamo currcnte. 



CIIAUNCY. 203 

The next publication of Dr. C. which arrests sfxtxy'. 
and is well worthy of notice, is " The validity oi ^.-g-, 
presbyterian ordination asserted and maintained. 
A discourse, delivered at the aniiivcrsaryDudleian 
lecture, at Harvard college in Cambridge, New- 
england, 12 May, 1762. With an apperidix, 
giving a brief historical account of the epistles 
ascribed to Ignatius ; and exhibiting some of the 
many reasons, why they ought not to be depend- 
ed on, as his uncorrupted works." 

He states in this discourse the things, in 
which congregationalists agree with episcopali- 
ans. All are agreed, that it is the will of Christ, 
that an order of ministers should be continued 
upon earth ; that none unqualified should assume 
the pastoral office ; that, in the investiture of office, 
certain forms should be ol:)served ; and that the 
act of investiture should be performed by those 
and those only, who are authorized to perform it. 
Then comes the consideration of the grand ques- 
tion, Who those officers are ? The episcopalians, 
on their part, contend, that there were, from the 
beginning, two orders of christian ministers, bish- 
ops and presbyters, and that the former of these 
only had, and ought to have, the power of ordina^ 
tion. Dr. C. on the part of congregationalists 
affirms, that Jesus appointed and designed, that 
there should be one order only of christian minis- 
ters, and that the terms bishops and presbyters are 
used synonymously in the christian scriptures and 
in the writings of the christian fathers of the two, 
certainly, if not three first centuries. After 
learnedly discussing the subject, he concludes, 



204 CilAl NCV. 

SKC. XV. " I trust, I may now say, it has been miidc siitFi- 
1762. ciently clear, from the positive evidence, that has 
been exhil:)ited in the former part of this dis- 
course, and from its not being invalidated, but 
rather strengthened, by the counter-evidence we 
have examined in the latter part, that the power 
of ordination was not deposited in the hands of 
bishops, as distinguished from presbyters ; but 
that bishops or presbyters, meaning by these 
terms one and the same order of officers, were 
vested with power to ordain in the chuich of 
Christ ; and consequently that ordination by a 
council of presbyters, as practised by these 
churches, is valid to all the ends of the gospel- 
ministry." 

To this valuable sermon is added a still more 
valuable appendix, in which the Dr. abundantly 
proves, that the reputed epistles of St. Ignatius 
are entitled to no credit in settling the dispute 
between episcopalians and presbyter ians. 

The next sermon published by the Dr. was 
the one, which he preached at the ordination of 
Rev. Joseph Bowman, missionary to the mohawk 
Indians. The dedication is to the marquis of 
Lothian, and written with more elegance, in point 
of style, than usually marks the writings of our 
author. The title of this discourse is, " All na- 
tions blessed in Christ." And here is discerni- 
ble, for the first time, a glimpse of that scheme of 
universal salvation, for which Dr. C. was so 
abused by some, and celebrated by others. He 
says, in his sermon, p. 20. " And can it be sup- 
posed, when the promise is thus gloriously exten- 



CHAUNCY. 20.> 

sive, as to its object, that a few only will be bless- sr.c. xv 
ed, in consequence of it ?" The three things, o^-~~^~ 
uh.ich he particularly treats, are the seed, in whom 
this promise is made, the just import of the bles- 
siii!^ promised, and the extent of that promise. 
He has two curious notes, in which he delivers 
some sentiments in regard to the Indians of this 
country, which were, at that time, and arc still, un- 
fashionable. He thinksjthat they ought to be chris- 
tianized, without being civilized ; and, that all our 
efforts at education and evangelizing, instead of 
educating Indian youths among ourselves, should 
be made upon them in their own country. 

In 1765, Dr. C. published twelve sermons, re- 
lating to Sandemanians. The first sermon is on 1765. 
Gal. ii. 16. " Knowing, that a man is not justifi- 
ed by the works of the law, but by the faith of 
Jesus Christ, even we have believed in Jesus 
Christ, that we might be justified by the faith of 
Christ, and not by the works of the law ; for by 
liie works of the law shall no flesh be justified." 
This is the text. The sermon begins thus. 
" The first and last clause in this verse are ex- 
press in affirming negatively," &c. Rev. J. Con- 
dy, when these sermons were first published, 
took them up in a bookseller's shop, and, on read- 
ing these words, laid them down, saying he was 
satisfied ; he wished to read no more of these 
affirmative negations. 

Notwithstanding however the inelegant com- 
mencement of the sermons, they make a work, 
every way creditable to the talents of their author. 
Dr. Eliot, a contemporary with Dr. Chauncy, 



206 GHAUNCV. 

SEC. XV. said, on reading these discourses, that, much as 
he was acquainted with Dr. C.'s powers, he was 
astonished at the production. 

In the first discourse he proves, that justifica- 
tion is impossible by the works of the law. Af- 
ter explaining the wordsjustif//, and works of the 
law, he proceeds to his proofs. " To justify," he 
says, " is not to make just, as to sanctify is to 
make holy ;" but " it is to account or adjudge, 
as just." By " works of the law" are some- 
times meant the law of natural religion, sometimes 
the law of divine revelation, and again the law 
ritual ordained by Moses. His object is then to 
show, that, in whatever sense the word laxu is un- 
derstood, it is impossible to comply fully with its 
requisitions ; that God never intended to judge 
any of his lapsed offspring by the rigours of law ; 
that he always meant to be merciful to the crea- 
tures, he had made ; and that it is only on the 
compassionate terms of the gospel, that any of the 
children of Adam will ever be saved. 

The second discourse, on the same text, is 
occupied in answering the question, " Wherefore 
then serveth the law ?" 

It was given, because of transgressions, because 
mankind Irad obscured the light of reason, and to 
prevent the utter loss of all distinction between 
virtue and vice. 

It was added,because of transgressions, that the 
Jews might have a certain rule of duty, and that 
bv knowledge of law they might have a knowl- 
edge of sin. 

It was added, that the malignity of sin might 
be more apparent. 



CHAUNCY. 207 

It was added, in fine, that the Jews might be si:c. xv. 
excited to repentance, and to accept the pardon, 3^ 
proffered them in the revelation of grace. 

The moral law as well, as the Jewish ceremo- 
nies, was designed, as a schoolmaster to bring the 
Jews to Christ. It led them to a knowledge of sin, 
to discipline their hearts and minds, and trained 
them to those dispositions and habits, which the 
gospel was to promulgate, to cherish, and ripen. 

The third discourse, which is on the same 
text, proposes to ascertain the nature of justify- 
ing faith. 

" Faith," says the Dr. *' herein differs from 
knowledge. Faith is the mind's assent upon tes- 
timony, and upon the testimony of God, if the 
fiiith is christian. Knowledge is an assent 
grounded on the perception of the bodily senses, 
or the operation of our reasonable powers." He 
says, that two things are to be considered in re- 
gard to a justifying faith. One is the object, 
about which it is conversant ; the other is, the 
assent of the mind with reference to this object. 
Sometimes the object of christian faith is the 
doctrine of Jesus ; sometimes God ; sometimes 
Christ ; Christ, as the Messiah ; Christ, as the Son 
of God ; Christ, as shedding his blood on the 
cross ; Christ, as risen from the dead. Dr. C. 
takes occasion in this discourse to touch upon the 
unreasonableness of censuring one another's creed, 
and the worth and loveliness of a charitable spirit. 

" The short of the matter is," says he, *' the 
truths contained in the revelations of God, con- 
sidered in one collective view, are the proper ob- 
ject of faith." 



208 CIIAUNCV, 



SKt; XV 



The fourth sermon is occupied in showinc^ the 
1765. proper influence or operation of this justifying- 
faiih. It shows itself in a new temper, in good 
works, in regeneration, repentance, and holiness 
of heart and life. It showed itself in the obedi- 
ence of Abraham, Abel, Enoch, and Noah ; and 
is, in short, visible in the life of every good man. 

The fifth sermon continues to display more 
particularly the nature of justifying faith. 

The sixth assigns to justifying faith its proper 
place. 

The seventh shows that " human endeavours, 
in the use of means, are the way, in which faith is 
obtained." Our author here combats the notion 
maintained by Solifidians, that God is the sole 
author of faith in the soul of man, and that it is 
wrought independently of all human agency and 
cooperation. He allows indeed, and contends 
for the truth, that God is the author of the truth 
to be believed ; but he insists, that the act of be- 
lieving is man's ; and, that faith, like every thing 
else,is to be sought for in the use of the means of 
religion. 

In the eighth discourse Dr. C. proceeds with 
the arguments, and specifies particular acts, of 
which a man, though destitute of justifying faith, 
is capable, and which, as a reasonable being, he 
ought to perform. He contends, that sinners may, 
with the divine aid, so exert their rational facul- 
ties, as to be convinced of the being and perfec- 
tions of God ; of the difference between moral 
good and evil ; of their obligations to choose the 
first and avoid the last ; of the immortality of 



GIIAUNCY. 209 



1765. 



their souls ; of the truth of revelation ; and of the sec. xv. 
importance of fleeing from the wrutli, wiiich is ' 
denounced against the impenitent. In conse- 
quence of this faith, though not a justifying one, 
the Dr. affirms, that sinners may grieve for their 
sins, practise duties formerly neglected ; read the 
scriptures ; prefer religious meditation to the 
vanities of the world ; attend to the institutions of 
Christianity ; to prayer ; and to the culture of 
their religious affections. These things are their 
indispensable duty. Even if they cannot per- 
form them from the highest principles, they 
ought to act under the influence of the best prin- 
ciples, they possess. Better avoid sin from no 
higher motive, than the mere dread of hell, than 
not avoid it at all. 

In the ninth discourse it is stated, that these 
endeavours of sinners, previousl}' to their arriv- 
ing at justifying faith, are the ordinary methods, 
by which the Deity begins and effectuates the 
work of faith in their hearts. Instances are ad- 
duced in proof and illustration ; and it is pretty 
well established, not only that the use of means is 
connected with the attainment of salvation, but 
that means are blessed in proportion to the dili- 
gcnce,with which they are used. 

The tenth discourse is occupied in answering 
objections. It is objected, for instance, that faith 
is an entire and immediate act of almighty power. 
Dr. C. answers, Should this be the truth, it will 
not follow, that human endeavours are needless. 
For God, if he please, may as well make seeking 
sinners the subjects of this gift, as the thought- 

(T. 



210 Cli.VL'NCV. 

SEC. XV. less and obdurate. Should it however prove 
true, that, m the bestowment of faith, men are not 

i765. 

mtrcly j.nissive subjects of this gift, the preceding 
remarks upon human endeavours are highly im- 
portant. xVnd this way of communicating tlic 
gift appears most rational and scriptural. It 
seems reasonable to suppose, that God, in draw- 
ing sinners to Christ, would accomplish the work 
by cooperating with human faculties in the use 
of proper means. Had the powers of u\cn been 
destroyed by the original lapse, it would indeed 
be impossible for them to do any thing of them- 
selves, until those faculties were restored by a di- 
vine energy. But, as they exist in men, it is 
reasonable to suppose, that God would produce 
faith within them in a way, which is adapted to 
their character. And this is the way prescribed 
in the scriptures. Faith in Christ is a command- 
ed duty. A neglect to acquire this faith is de- 
clared to be a sin. It is thus made certain, that 
men are considered, as accountable agents in the 
Ijusiness of faith. Why did Christ work mira- 
cles, but to produce in the mindsof men the work 
ofuiidi? And why are the means and motives 
so numerous of exciting attention to the truths of 
the gospel ? Plainly, that men might not want 
suitable stimulus to the discharge of their duty, 
and that, if negligent, they might be without ex- 
cuse. For *' how shall they call on him, in whom 
they have not believed ? And how shall they 
believe in him, of whom they have not heard ? 
And how shall they hear, without a preacher ?'" 



CIIAUNCV. 211 

From these questions of the apostle, this is his sec. xv. 
conclusion. " So then faith comet'i by hearinij, 
and hearing by the word of God." 

^- * ^ *****•. * * * *■ -^ 
* * * * ^- •* * * * ^- ^ ^ * 

[The author had proceeded no further, at his 
death.] 

ACCOUNT OF DRCMAUiXCYS FAMILY. KV 1)U. CLAUKK. 

" Charles Chauncy, from whom the Chauncys 
in this country descended, was born, A.D. 1589. 
He had his grammar education at Westminster- 
school ; and was at school, at the time the gun- 
powder plot was to have taken effect ; and must 
have perished, if the parliament-house had been 
blown up. He was afterwards, when qualified, 
sent to the university of Cambridge, where he 
commenced bachelor of divinity, and was chosen 
hebrew professor. But the vice-chancellor. Dr. 
Williams, preferring a kinsman, he was fixed in 
the greek professorship. He was an accurate 
hebrician and grecian, and indeed admirably 
skilled in all the learned languages. He went 
out of the university an eminent gospel- preacher ; 
was first settled at Marston, and afterwards re- 
moved to Ware, where his success became mat- 
ter of much observation. 

It was in the days of archbishop Laud, that, 
for ease to his conscience, he came over to New- 
england. He arrived at Plymouth, a few days 
before the great earthquake, which happened, 1 
January, 1638. He spent some time at Piym 
outh, ministering to the church there, with their 



212 CH\U.\CY. 

SEC. XV. pas*;or, the Rev. Mr. Reyner, and then settled at 
Scituate, where he continued about nine years ; 
when, upon an invitation iVom his old friends at 
Ware, he purposed a removal back to England 
with his family ; but, when he came to Boston, 
in order to take passage, the overseers of Harvard 
college, by their vehement importunity, prevailed 
upon him to take the presidentship of that socie- 
ty, in which place he continued to the day of his 
death, highly honoured for his learning and piety. 

In the year 1671, he made his farewell ora- 
tion, on the day of commencement ; and, towards 
the close of the year, exchanged this life for a bet- 
ter, in the 82d year of his age, and the 17th of 
his presidentship over Harvard college. 

He left behind him six sons, every one of 
whom received their degrees at the college, and 
some of them from the hands of their aged fath- 
er. They all, for a time, were preachers ; and 
some of them settled in the ministry, and contin- 
ued in it, till death. 

Isaac, the eldest of the sons, left this country, 
and became pastor to a church in London. If I 
mistake not, he officiated with the Rev. Dr. 
Watts. He had three children. The youngest, 
by the name of Charles, came out into this coun- 
try, and settled here a merchant. 

From this Charles descended Charles, who 
was born 1 January, A. D. 1705." 

To this I would add, that, at the age of sev- 
en years, Dr. Chauncy lost his flither. At 
twelve, he entered college ; commenced master 
of arts at nineteen ; and was associated with the 



ciiArxeY. n: 

Rev. Mr. Foxcroft, in the pastoral care of the ^r-C- xv 
Fiist Church, 25 October, 1727. In 1742, he 
was honoured with the degree of doctor in divin- 
ity by the university of Edinburgh. He expired, 
10 February, 1787, in the 83d year of his age. 
Dr. Chauncy had three children. 

J Catalot^ue of (he printed works of Dr. Chauncy. 

A sermon on the dealh of Mrs. Sarah Bycfiekl, 1731. 
A sermon on the death of Miss Elizabeth Price, 1732, 
A sermon on the death of judge Byefield, 1733. 
A sermon before the artillery company, 1734. 
A sermon on the death of Mr. Jonathan Williams, 1737. 
A sermon on religious compulsion, 1739. 
A sermon on the death of Mrs. Lucy Waldo, 1741. 
A sermon on the new creature, 1741. 
A sermon on an unbridled tongue, 1741. 
A sermon on the various gifts of ministers, 1742. 
A sermon on the out-pouring of the Holy Ghost, 1742, 
A sermon on enthusiasm, 1742. 

Account of the french prophets,in a letter to a friend, 1742. 
Seasonable thoughts on the state of religion, 8vo. 1743. 
A sermon at the instalment of the Rev. Mr. Frink, 1744. 
A sermon at the annual convention, 1744. 
A letter to Rev. George Whitfield, publickly calling on 
him to defend his conduct, or confess his faults, 1744. 
A second letter to the same, 1 745. 

Thanksgiving sermon on the reduction of capeBreton, 1 745. 
A sermon on the death of Mr. Cornelius Thayer, 1745. 
A sermon on the rebellion in favour of the pretender, 1745. 
An election sermon, 1747. 
A sermon on the death of Mrs. Foxcroft, 1749. 
A sermon for encouraging industry, 1752. 
A sermon on murder, 1754. 
A sermon on the earthquake, 1755. 

Account of the Ohio defeat, in a letter to a friend, 1755- 
A particular narrative of the defeat of the french army, 
at lake George, in a letter to a friend, 1755. 



2 1 4 CHAUNCY. 

_-,,, -„^ A sermon on the earthquakes in Spain, Sec. 1756, 

A sermon on the death of Mr. Edward Gray, 1757. 

The opinion of one, who has perused the summer morn- 
ing's conversation, Sec. 1758. 
Dudleian Lecture. On presbyterian ordination, 1762. 
A sermon at the ordination of Rev. Jos. Bowman, 17G2. 
Twelve sermons, particularly referring to the Sandema- 

nian doctrines, 1765. 
A sermon at the ordination of Rev. Mr. Bowen, 1766. 
A sermon on the death of Dr. Mayhcw, 1766. 
Thanksgiving sermon on the repeal of the stamp-act, 

1767. 
A sermon at the ordination of Rev. Mr. Howard, 1767. 
Remarks on the bishop of Landaff's sermon, in a letter 

to a friend, 1767. 
Answer to Dr. Chandler's appeal, 1768. 
A sermon on the death of Rev. Thomas Foxcroft, 1761). 
A sermon on the death of Dr. Sewall, 1769. 
" Trust in God, the duty of a people," Sec. a sermon 

preached at the request of a number of patrioiick 

gentlemen, 1770. 
Reply to Dr. Chandler's appeal defended, 1770. 
A complete view of episcopacy. Svo. 1771. 
Five sermons on the communion, 1772, 
A sermon on " all things in common," 1773. 
A just representation of the hardships and sufferings ot 

the town of Boston, in a letter to a friend, 1774. 
A sermon on the <' accursed thing," 1778. 
The mystery hid from ages, or the salvation of all men. 

8vo. 1784. 
The benevolence of the Deity, fairly and impartially 

considered. 8vo. 1784. 
Five dissertations on the fall and its consequences. Svo. 

1785. 
A sermon upon the return of the society to their house 

of worship, after it had undergone the necessary re- 
pairs, 1785. 



SECTION XVI. 

Sketch of the life and character of the Lite Kcv. Dr. CU\rke. 

John Clarke, D. D. pastor of the First 
Church in Boston, was born at Portsmouth, in sec. xvf 
Nevvhampshire, April 13, i755 ; graduated at 1793 
Harvard college, in 1774 ; and ordained, July 8, 
1778, as colleague with the late Dr. Chauncy, 
with whom he lived, in the most intimate and 
respectful friendship, about nine years ; and af- 
terwards continued assiduously and faithfully la- 
bouring in the service of the church, until the 
Lord's-day, April 1, 1798 ; when, in the midst 
of his afternoon sermon, he was suddenly seized 
with an apoplexy, fell down in the pulpit, and ex- 
pired in less than twelve hours ; having almost 
completed the forty-third year of his age, and the 
twentieth year of his ministry. 

Descended from respectable parents, who live 
to lament an only son, he discovered in early life 
the signs of genius and industry. At the uni- 
versity, he was distinguished by a close attention 
to classick and philosophick studies, by a strict 
obedience to the laws, and by irreproachable 
morals. In the office of preceptor, he was gentle 
and persuasive, beloved by his pupils, and es- 
teemed by their friends. As a publick preacher. 



2 i (> CLAUKE. 

SFX'.x\ J. Ills compositions bore the marks of penetration, 
judgment, perspicuity, and elegance. Faithful 
to the interest of religion, he deeply examined its 
foundation and evidence ; and, persuaded of the 
truth and importance of the christian system, he 
recommended, by his publick discourses and pri- 
vate conversation, its sublime doctrines, its wise 
institutions, and its salutary precepts. 

Though fond of polite literature and philosoph- 
ick researches, yet he considered theology, as the 
proper science of a gospel minister. To this ob- 
ject he principally devoted his time and studies, 
and was earnestly desirous of investigating every 
branch of it, not merely to gratify his own sacred 
curiosity, but that he might impart to his hearers 
the whole counsel of God. He was habitucilly a 
close student ; and it is not improbable, that the 
intensencss of his mental application proved too 
severe for the delicate fabrick of his nerves. 

His devotional addresses were copious and 
fervent ; and his intercessions strong and affec- 
tionate ; discovering at once the ardour of his pie- 
tv, and the warmth of his benevolence. In the 
private offices of pastoral friendship, he was truly 
exemplary and engaging. His temper was mild 
and cheerful ; his manners easy and polite ; and 
the social virtues of an honest heart gave a glow 
to his language, and enlivened every circle, in 
which he was conversant. 

In the relations of a son, a brother, a husband, a 
father, a guardian, a correspondent, a master, a 
friend, and a member of several literary and char- 



CLARKE. 217 

itable societies,* his deportment was marked sec. xvi. 
with aftection, fidelity, and carefulness. He was j^qg 
concerned for the interest, reputation, and happi- 
ness of all his connexions ; and zealously devo- 
ted to the cause of science and humanity. 

Beini^ successour to ten eminent luminaries of 
the church of God, he was studious to emulate 
them in piety, learning, and usefulness. Like 
three of them, he was suddenly called off from 
his ministerial labours, and, having happily escap- 
ed the painful agonies of a lingering death, is 
gone to receive the reward of a faithful servant, 
and enter into the joy of his Lord. 

Dr. Clarke's printed works are four sermons, 
one on the death of Dr. Cooper, one on the death 
of Dr. Chauncy, one on the death of Dr. N. W. 
Appleton, and one before the Humane Society ; 
An answer to the question. Why are you a Chris- 
tian ? which has had three editions in Boston, and 
three in England ; and Letters to a student at the 
university of Cambridge." 

A volume of Dr. Clarke's sermons has been 
published, since his decease. It is a selection, 
that does honour to his memory ; and will be 
cherished by the christian and the scholar, as ex- 
hibiting, in elegant and very impressive language, 
the pure and pious sentiments of one of the best 
of men.-j- 

* Dr. Clarke was a counsellor of llic American Academy of Arts 
and Sciences, corresponding' secretary oi the Humane Society of 
the commonwealth of Massacliuscits, and one of the members of 
the Massachusetts Historical Society. 

t [To t!iis has since been added a volume, containing- Beventecn 
sermons to the young-.] 
1)D 



218 Gi^AliKE. 

SEC. XVI. His remains were entombed, the friday after 
j-y3_ his decease, with every mark of esteem and affec- 

> April, tion. A sermon was preached at his interment 
by Rev. Peter Thacher, D.D. from 2 Sam. i. 26. 

8 \i)iii ^'^ ^^^^ Lord's-day after the decease of Dr. 
Clarke, a discourse was dehvered to his bereav- 
ed flock, by Rev. Dr. Willard, president of the 
university in Cambridge, from which the follow- 
ing character of the deceased is selected. 

" Being a tutor at the university, when he be- 
came a member, and the class, to which he be- 
longed, being committed to my particular care, I 
had an early opportunity of knowing his charac- 
ter, and I was soon led to distinguish in him that 
genius and application to study, together with 
that amiable disposition and excellent spirit, 
which have ever since conspicuously shone in 
him. For two years and a quarter, I continued 
with the class, and, during that time, his improve- 
ments in literature and science were very observ- 
able ; and his conduct was so uniformly good, in 
every respect, that he never merited or received 
a censure, or a frown from any one, who had the 
care and instruction of the youth ; and I found 
by information, after my leaving the class and 
the university, that he maintained the same char- 
acter, through the whole of his collegiate course. 
And perhaps there never was a student, who 
passed through the university and went into the 
world with a fairer reputation, and few with 
more solid and useful acquirements. 

For some time after Mr. Clarke left the uni- 
versity, he was engaged in the instruction of 



«.ARK£. 219 

youth, in which employment he was highly sec. xvi 
esteemed and beloved. But, whatever his pur- ~~7~~ 

. 1798. 

suits were, he did not suffer his mind to be di- 
verted from the great object, he had in view, 
which was to fit for the sacred desk. ^Vhilc he 
was faithful in performing the business he under- 
took, he devoted his leisure hours to accomplish 
himself for that profession, which lay nearest his 
heart ; and he pursued his theological studies 
with great assiduity, so that,when he first entered 
the desk, it was not with a superficial knowledge. 
His natural abilities and literary acquirements 
were such, as enabled him to search the sacred 
oracles with accuracy, especially the original of 
the new testament, and to attend to every sub- 
ject in divinity with judgment. And such was 
the candour and fairness of his mind, that few men, 
perhaps, have been more free from prejudices in 
their researches. He therefore became a scribe 
well instructed in the gospel system. 

His discourses early discovered an elegant 
taste in composition, a correctness, propriety, and 
pertinence in thought, and that strain of serious- 
ness and piety, which could not but be attrac- 
tive. You, my brethren, soon heard of his 
worth ; and, when you employed him, as a candi- 
date for the ministry among you, your expecta- 
tions from him were not disappointed ; nay, it 
will not ' be beyond the truth to say, that they 
were more than answered. After preaching with 
you a competent time, he was ordained over you, 
as a colleague pastor with the venerable, learned, 
and valuable doctor Chauncy, with whom ht?- 



22'J CLARKE. 

SKC. x\ 1. served, as a son with a father ; and between them 
1798. there ever existed the most happy harmony, till 
the day of the doctor's death. 

Having obtained a settlement, he did not grow 
remiss about future improvements, but continued 
tlie same assiduity, which had been a distinguish- 
ed trait in his character. To the liberal arts and 
sciences, for wliich he had a true relish, and in 
which he was no common proficient, he, at times, 
paid attention. But these he considered, as noth- 
ing mure, than handmaids to divinity, and of but 
secondary consideration. Divinity was his pro- 
fession ; and to this he directly applied a principal 
part of his time. He had devoted himself to the 
cause of God and the Redeemer, and he would not 
suffer other pursuits, however pleasing to his in- 
genious mind, to steal him away fiom his proper 
functions, and rob him of that time, which he 
considered himself bound in duty to employ for 
the instruction and edification of his flock, either 
in preparation for his publick labours among them, 
or in private interviews with the various mem- 
bers. I have dwelt the more largely on this part of 
his character, because a scholar of Dr. Clarke's ac- 
quirements, and taste for literature and science, is 
under a strong temptation to spend more time in 
such pursuits, than is consistent with properly dis- 
charging the duties of his sacred profession. 

Your pastor employed himself much in the 
study of the holy scriptures. To these heavenly 
oracles he repaired, as the sources of divine 
knowledge, and endeavoured to gain right iij:)pre- 
bensions of the truths contained in them, both for 



CLAUIvE. 221 

his own sake and the sake of his hearers, whom sec.xvi. 
he instructed in these, according to his best iin- [J^' 
derstanding, after making use of the most ap- 
proved helps he could procure, and which he 
was constantly laying himself out to obtain. 

His pulpit performances were always accepta- 
ble. With those compositions of his, which I 
have either heard or read, I have ever been pleas- 
ed and edified. His treatise in defence of Chris- 
tianity, entitled, " Why are you a christian ?" is 
perhaps as valuable a piece, as has been written 
within the same compass. By its conciseness it 
is well adapted to being dispersed ; and by its 
perspicuity and pertinence happily calculated to 
convince and confirm. It is highly esteemed, not 
only on this, but on the other side of the Atlan- 
tick. I have received,but a little while since,a let- 
ter from a respectable divine in Greatbritain.* In 
this letter he says, " We have here been greatly 
pleased, instructed, and impressed by a little piece, 
by one of your ministers, Mr. Clarke, entitled, 
"Why are you a christian?" And after mentioning, 
that three editions of it had been printed in Eng- 
land, two of which he himself had carried through 
the press, he adds, " The circulation of it cannot 
fail to give pleasure to the pious and worthy au- 
thor, and to insure its views of usefulness." 

His pleasing private intercourse with you, and 
also with the children of the society, whom he 
delighted to instruct, you need not be reminded 
of. The impressions made by these endear- 
ments will not be soon, if ever, effaced. Indeed, 
so sweet was his disposition, and so engaging his 

* The Rev. Joshua Toiilmin, D. D. of Taunton. 



*23 CLARKE. 

vSEc. XVI. manners ; so pleasing was he in his conversa- 
i-.9g tion, and so amiable in all his interviews with 
those he met, that a general esteem of and affec- 
tion for him was almost unavoidably excited ; and 
he was beloved by all, but the determined foes of 
virtue and goodness. 

Ipass over his domestick virtues,in which he was 
eminent, and which all, who knew him, witnessed. 

What an unspeakable loss have you sustained 
in the death of such a minister and friend ! But 
let the bereaved relatives, let the members of 
this religious society, consider the consolations, 
which offer themselves in the midst of their grief. 
You have all abundant reason to conclude, that he 
was a man of habitual piety, and that he lived 
mindful of his exit ; so that, although he was 
suddenly summoned out of time into eternity, he 
was prepared for the change, and that " his loins 
were girded about, and his light burning." He 
may be said to have been watching, when his 
master knocked. He was even then particularly 
employed in his service, engaged in the very act 
of religious teaching, and endeavouring to prepare 
men for a better world. 

Such grounds of comfort have we, when we 
reflect upon the character of our dear departed 
friend. We consider him, as one, who had been 
sealed with the Holy Spirit of promise ;* and that, 
having been thus sealed, he is now ascended to that 
" Holy One, who inhabiteth the praises of Israel."| 

* A part of the text, treated upon by the clcceasecl,on the forenoon 
of the day of his decease, previous to the communion. Eph. i. 13. 

f The subject, upon which he was treating in the afternoon, 
%vhen he was seized with the fatal malady. 



SEC.XVU. 



SECTION XVII. 

The following character of Rev. Mf. Emerson Is extracted from 
Rev. J. S Buckminster's sermon, at his funeral. 

** Help, Lord, for the godly man ceaseth ; for 
the faithful fail from among the children of men I" 
Psalm xii. I. ^^^^• 

The godly man ceaseth. The Reverend Wil- 
liam Emerson*^ gave early indications of devoted- 
ness to the service of God. He was a descen- 
dant of pious ancestors, through many genera- 
tions ; and the only son of one of the most pop- 
ular and promising ministers of Newengland, vjh.o 
died early in the american revolution. The 
mother, who survives to mourn over the death of 
her son, saw him with delight soon giving his at- 
tention and studies to the word and ministry of 
that God, to whom the prayers and wishes of his 
parents had directed his first thoughts. They, 
who knew him best, during the most trying pe- 
riod of youthful virtue, bear witness to the sin- 

• The following dates and facts, relating to Rev. Mr. Emerson 
and his family, may be grateful to iiis friends and the publick. 

He was the son of Rev. William Emerson and Pheb© his wife, 
daughter of the Rev. Daniel Bliss. 

He was born at Concord, 6 May, 1769. 

Graduated at Cambridge, 1789. 

Ordained at Harvard, 1792. 

Installed in the First Church, Boston, 16 Oct. 1799, 

Died, 12 May, 1811. 



2>24 KMEUSOX. 

SFX.xvir. gular purity of his mind, tenderness of his con-, 
" science, devoutncss of his feehngs, and strictness 
of his manners ; qualities, which, by God's bles- 
sing, age and experience did not diminish, and 
which his christian profession afterwards secured 
and improved. 

In one of the longest conversations, which I 
was permitted to hold with him, a few days be- 
fore his death, when his mind seemed to be 
lighted up anew, and his faculties to collect 
fresh vigour, he expressed the most grateful 
and pious satisfaction in the circumstance, that 
he, with all his father's family, had so early felt 
the obligations of the gospel, as to give them- 
selves up to Jesus Christ by a profession of his 
religion. The privilege of being a christian then 
occupied his thoughts ; and he continued to talk 
with unusual animation of the benefits of early 
communion ; and to express his wishes, that his 
eldest son, then at his bedside, might not forget 
early to seek, nor be so unhappy as ever to forfeit, 
this christian privilege. That great article of the 
christian dispensation, the resurrection from the 
dead, was the frequent theme of his meditations, 
and of his publick instructions ; so that his faith 
was not vain, nor his preaching vain ; for his 
faith was always strong enough to render his 
preaching the expression of his own intimate per- 
suasions, and the cheerful employment of his life. 
1808 ^^ ^^^^ practical strength of his faith and piety 

^^ , he was permitted to give us a memorable exam- 
ple, during that sudden attack, which he sustain- 
ed, a few years since, in all the fulness of his 
health and expectations, when he was busily pre- 



EMEKSOX. 223 

paring for a publick service. Those, who then sec.xvii. 
saw hini brought down, in an instant, and without ^^ 
any previous warning, to the gates of death, can 
never forget tlic steadfastness, with which he re- 
ceived the alarm, and the singular humility and 
composure, with which he waited, during many 
days, doubtful of life, and expecting every hour 
to leave all, that was dear to him on earth, to pre- 
sent himself before God.* Next to the satisfac- 
tion of behaving well ourselves, in an hour of tri- 
al, is that of witnessing the tranquillity of our 
friends, and finding, that we need not fear for 
their example, while flesh and heart is failing, for 
God is the strength of their heart and their por- 
tion forever. 

The same steadfastness, and tranquil foresight isii 
of his dissolution God has enabled him to exhibit, 
through the whole of the distressing and lingering 
disorder, of which he died. A few hours before 
his death, he overheard some conversation re- 
specting those, who should pass the night with 
him ; and he summoned strength enough to ar- 
ticulate " God is with me !" The great inte- 
rest, with which some persons always watch the 

* It was in the year 1808, that he was attacked with a profuse 
hemarrhajje from the lungs, from the effects of which he never 
completely recovered. But the disease, of which he died, had not 
probably the remotest connexion with this bleeding. It appeared 
upon examination, that the lower orifice of the stomach was al- 
most entirely closed by a schirriious tumour, or hard swelling-, 
which on the inside was ulcerated. So completely was the pas- 
sage of the pylorus obliterated, tl\at a drop of water could hardly be 
pressed through it from the stomach, whicl> was full. 
EE 



226 E.MEKSOX. 

SEC.xviT. l^st intelligent exercises of a spirit, which has beeti 
^gj, warned of its departure, was here not disappoint- 
ed. No one could leave his presence without a 
secret consciousness, that tlie collected, intelli- 
gent, and strong indications, which he daily gave, 
of profound submission to God's will, and un- 
' shaken faith in his gospel, were very much to be 
preferred to the indistinct raptures and ejacula- 
tions, which are so often caught from the lips of 
the dying, where more is supposed to be meant, 
than meets the car, and more is put into the 
speech, than was originally contained in the 
thought. The approach of death gave no new 
colour to his faith ; and he has left us a proof, 
which will long be remembered, not of the truth 
indeed, but of the power of those principles, by 
which, for nearly twenty years, he had preached 
and practised. 

He was ?i faithful as well, as a pious man. Of 
his fidelity in his ministerial office, you, my hear- 
ers, are of course better judges, than the preacher. 
Rut from his extraordinary correctness of man- 
ners, and disposition to method in the disposal of 
his time, great fidelity might be expected in what 
he regarded, as his duty ; and this sentiment as 
well, as the desire of doing good, would engage so 
careful a mind,ashis,inthe punctilious discharge 
of the duties of his profession. The prosperity 
of this ancient church was peculiarly dear to him. 
He looked back with veneration almost unbound- 
ed on some of his predecessors here ; and while 
lie breathed much of their spirit, he successfully 



EMERSON. 22? 

emulated their merits. He was a happy example of ^.^^^ j^^.^j 
that correct and rational style of evanu:elical preach- 

° * 1811. 

ing, of which the yet lamented Clarke has left so 
fair a specimen. Our departed brother had long 
been employed on a history of the First Church ; 
and was engaged in the analysis of the works and 
character of Chauncy, when his progress was ar- 
rested by the disease, of which he died, and he 
was called to join the company of those great and 
good men, whom he had before known only in 
their works, but now face to face. 

Such is the constitution of society among us, 
that much of the care of our literary and charita- 
ble institutions devolves upon those clergymen, 
who have disposition and qualifications for the 
task. Mr. Emerson's industry, integrity, accu- 
racy, and fidelity were well known in the nume- 
rous societies, of which he was a member. The 
town has lost a diligent observer of its youth and 
their education ; the Academy and Historical 
Society an associate greatly interested in their 
flourishing state ; the University an attentive 
overseer. The clergy throughout the country 
have lost a hospitable and liberal brother ; his 
family a most careful and excellent father, hus- 
band, and master ; and his friends an honourable 
and faithful friend. 

O 'tis well 
With him. But who knows what the coming hour 
VQ'l'd in thick darkness, brings for us I 



328 E.VIERSOX. 

SEC XVII "^^^^ following is, we believe, a correct list of his 
acknowledged publications. 



1811. 



1. Sermon at Harvavfl, 4 July, 1794. 

2. Sermon at the artillery election, Boston, 1799. 

3. Sermon before the Roxbury Charitable Society, 1800. 
4f. Sermon at the ordination of Rev. Robert Smiley, 23 

September, 1801. 

5. Boston Oration, 4 July, 1802. 

6. Sermon on the death of Rev. Dr. Thacher, 1802. 

7. Sermon at the ordination of Rev. Thomas Bede,1803. 

8. Sermon on the death of madam Bowdoin, i803. 

9. Sermon before the Boston Female Asylum, 1805. 

10. Sermon on the death of Charles Austin, 1806. 

11. Discourse before the Humane Society. 1807. 

12. The first, second, third, and seventh discourses in the 
fourth number of the Christian Monitor, with the pray- 
ers annexed to each discourse. 

13. A selection of psalms and hymns, embracing all the 
varieties of subject and metre, suitable for private de- 
votion and the worship of churches. 12mo. i808. 

II. Sermon at the ordination of Rev. Mr. Clark, Bur- 
lington, 1810. 

His father was son of Rev, Joseph Emerson 
and Mary his wife, daughter of Rev. Samuel 
Moody of York. The following extract from an 
obituary notice of his early death is dated 

"Concord, Nov ist 17r6. 
On the morning of the Lord's day, the 20th of October last, died 
at Rutland, on Otter creek, the Rev. Mr. William Emerson, pastor 
of the church of Christ in this town, in the 55th year of bis ag-e. His 
zeal for the liberties of his country, which appeared from the be- 
ginning of the present troubles, animated him to accomp-any his 
brethren in the reinforcement lately sent by this state to our army 
at Ticonderoga, as chaplain of a regiment. But tlie hardships, to 
which lie was exposed, soon overcame his delicate constitution, and 
brought on the symptoms of a bilious fever ; which, \\hen he h.ad 
proceeded a few miles on his return, attacked him v.itii greater 
violence, and prevailed, until his Lord called him from tlic labours 
find sufferings of this hfe to receive his reward." 



f.OOD M£N ALWAYS DESIRE THE PRESENCE OF GOD 



A SERMON, 



DELIVERED AT FIKST CHURCH, BOSTON, 17 JULY, 1808, THE DAV 
OF LEAVING THE PLACE OF WORSHIP FOR A NEW EDIFICE. 
BY WILLIAM EMERSOy, THE PASTOR. 



Exod. xxxiii. 15. 
If tliy presence g'o not witii me, carry us not up hence. 

▼ ▼ E have arrived, my brethren, at so noticeable a peri- 
od in the history of our church, that I was unable to 
restrain myself from addressing you, on the singular oc- 
casion. For sufficient reasons, and, I hope, for our own 
and the common benefit in time to come, we are about 
to abandon this house, which, for ninety-five years, has 
been used, as a place of worship. In resigning it to a 
ruin, which, in a few years, would, in spite of all our 
exertions, inevitably have overtaken it, and which, in a 
few years more, will creep over all terrestrial things, we 
are naturally led to review the records of our society. 
We feel a strong inclination to recur to the days of our 
fathers, and trace the most memorable passages in their 
christian pilgrimage. This duty I had proposed to my- 



230 SEKMON I. 

self, in looking forward to the day, which we now be- 
hold. An unforeseen, and, to me, awful dispensation 
of providence however, in suspending the exercise of 
my ministry, seemed to cover this purpose, and all my 
other purposes, with a veil of darkness. But that God, 
whose province it is to heal as well, as to wound, is 
prolonging a life, which was apparently destined to 
immediate waste. May it be in mercy to my and your 
souls ! Blessed God ! " If thy presence go not with 
me, carry me not up hence !" If thy pleasure may not 
prosper in my hand, take away utterly that life, which 
thou hast so severely threatened ! For thy favour is 
life, and thy loving kindness is better than life. Never- 
theless, O God, not my will, but thine be done ! 

Since then it seems to be the will of heaven, that I 
should resume my pastoral labours, I cannot, I say, de- 
ny myself the pleasure of putting you in remembrance 
of the divine conduct, towards this church, in former 
generations, and of imploring, with you, the divine 
presence in our contemplated removal. It will hardly 
deserve the name of a discourse ; and, were not my sit- 
uation perfectly well known, I should sit in silence 
with you, and meditate on the desolation hastening 
upon these hallowed walls. But I cast myself on your 
candour and kindness, which, in most instances, have 
exceeded my expectations, and my deserts in all. 

The words, which I place at the head of my dis- 
course, were spoken in an address to God by the he- 
brew legislator. On his way from Egypt to Canaan 
with the israelitish tribes, he was favoured of Jehovah 
with frequent interviews. The Deity is said to have 
conversed with him " face to face, as a man talketh 



SERMON I. 23 X 

with his friend." He was directed what course to 
pursue, when to travel, and where to rest. A cloud by 
day, and a fire by night, were tokens of the divine 
presence, and formed the guidance and consolation of 
the journeying Jews. 

Moses had now received the ten commandments 
from the mouth of Jehovah. During his stay in the 
mount however, the rebellious disposition of the people 
broke forth, in a request to Aaron, that he would make 
them a god to go before them. At this unpardonable 
instance of infidelity, the anger of the Lord was justly 
kindled, and he said to Moses, " Depart, and go up 
hence, thou, and the people, which thou hast brought 
up out of the land of Egypt ; and I will s^nd an angel 
before thee ; for I will not go up in the midst of thee, 
for thou art a stiff-necked people, lest I consume thee in 
the way. And when the people heard these evil ti- 
dings, they mourned, and no man did put on him his 
ornaments." As for Moses, he was overwhelmed with 
sorrow. Though innocent himself of the great trans- 
gression, he was yet alive to its dangers and conse- 
quences, with respect to the people ; and as much,as he 
censured their folly, he was determined to share in their 
fate. He interceded for their salvation, and could not 
endure the thought of being deprived of the conduct of 
Jehovah. Irksome, as was a precarious residence in 
the wilds of Arabia, and pleasing, as was the prospect 
of resting in the land of Canaan, he was willing to re^ 
nounce the last, and endure the first, rather than losf 
the protection and presence of the Lord. " And he 
said, if thine own presence go not with us, carry us not 
up hence," 



SEllMON i. 



The spontaneous prayer of any pilgrim to a better 
world ! Yes, good men always desire the presence of 
God. As they love what is excellent, so they desire to 
be intimately acquainted with the source of excellence. 
They have no relish for worldly advantages, if they can- 
not be enjoyed with the presence of God. Offer them 
power, and they reject it ; wealth, and they despise it ; 
pleasure, and they loathe it, if these goods are not to 
be possessed, except at the expense of their integrity, 
and their religious principles. They will not violate the 
laws of God to obtain the favour of man. They will 
not inhabit the most fruitful soil, and under the happi- 
est skies, and in the most magnificent buildings, if they 
must be confined to the company of the wicked, and 
deprived of the institutes and instructions of religion. 
Virtuous men, from the beginning of the world, have 
manifested a disposition to separate themselves from the 
workers of iniquity, and put themselves under the pro- 
tection of heaven. 

This truth might be illustrated by numerous exam- 
ples in sacred history. 

Abel had no sweet communion with his brother 
Cain, and Enoch preferred walking with God, in soli- 
tude, to mixing with the idolaters of his age. Noah 
sufficiently testified his desire for the presence of God, 
l)y seceding from the corrupt antediluvians, whom his 
preaching could not reform, and by building an ark for 
the salvation of his house. Abraham showed his regard 
for the divine presence, in renouncing his kindred and 
country, and seeking a habitation in a strange land. 
Isaac was under the influence of the same religious 
principle, and accordingly preserves himself and his 



SERMON I. 253 

family pure from the contagion of idolatry and vice, 
then prevalent in the world. And the same principle of 
piety actuated the vows and obedience of Jacob, who 
solemnly promised, " If the Lord will bring me in 
safety to the land of my fathers, then the Lord shall be 
my God." Joseph was an illustrious instance of a 
man, who desired the presence of God ; who kept his 
integrity amidst the most pressing temptations ; and 
who uniformly adhered to truth, conscience, and duty, 
whatever the adherence might cost him. Moses too, 
from the time, when he was called, to the day of his 
death, seems to have felt the same reverence and anxie- 
ty for the divine approbation, which he expresses in the 
text. He was ever unwilling to go, where God went 
not, and ever desirous to dwell, where God had pitched 
his abode. " He chose rather to sujffer affliction with 
the people of God, than to enjoy the pleasures of sin for 
a season ; for he had respect unto the recompense of re- 
ward." The same likewise may be said of Joshua, 
Caleb, Samuel, and David, who all desired to enjoy the 
divine favour, and to be guided by the divine hand. 
The last mentioned character especially was remarkable 
for the warmth of his devout affections, and the zeal he 
bore for the offices of the sanctuary. *' When," says 
he, *' shall I come, and appear before God ? I will 
go unto the altar of God, unto God my exceeding joy. 
How amiable are thy tabernacles, O Lord of hosts ! 
Lord ! I have loved the habitation of thy house, and 
the place, where thine honour dwelleth. One thing 
have I desired of the Lord, that will I seek after, that I 
may dwell in the house of the Lord all the days of my 

FF 



':3-i si:rmon i. 



life, to behold the beauty of the Lord, and to inquire in 
his temple." 

To this hst of worthies I might add the names of 
numbers of the hebrew prophets, who endured all sorts 
of temporal evil, rather than forfeit their allegiance to 
God, and their interest in his favour. See, in particu- 
lar. Job, Nehemiah, and Daniel, tormented with the 
sharpest afflictions, which were either incurred or borne 
from a regard to the presence and promises of God. 

The catalogue might be swelled by the mention of a 
liost of christian confessors and martyrs, headed by the 
founder of our i eligion, who were all devoted to the will 
of God, who made his service their employment, and 
his glory the end of their ambition. Hear the blessed 
Jesus, amid the agonies, which he suffered in the gar- 
den. " The hour is come, and what shall I say ? 
Shall I say, Father, save me from this hour ? No ; 
thou knowest, that I came not to do my will, but thine. 
Glorify thvself." Similar was the language of all his 
apostles as soon, as they were instructed in the nature 
of the gospel. They had no will but God's ; and their 
seasons of travelling, and their places of rest, were en- 
tirely under the direction of Providence. They left 
their all, whether it were little or much, to follow 
Christ. Parents, children, and wives, lands, houses, 
and reputation, nowise hindered their obedience to the 
intimations of heaven. In the face of reproach and 
imprisonment, of tortures and death, they hesitated 
not to go, where God went, and to speak what he com- 
manded. No. " None of these things moved them, 
neither counted they their lives dear unto them, so that 
they might finish their course with joy, and the min- 
istry, which they had received." 



SERMON 1. 235 

Ecclesiastical as well, as biblical history, furnishes 
the lives of many, whose piety, and fidelity to their reli- 
gion, in the midst of bitter and sanguinary persecutions, 
are an honour to the christian name. Think of the 
universally harassed condition of christians, until the 
reign of Constantine. Recollect their sufferings under 
the cruel Dioclesian. Consider also the distressing and 
wicked wars, which differing sects of christians have 
waged with each other. In these various calamities, 
multitudes have suffered bravely, for what they have 
supposed to be the truth, and for the sake of enjoying 
that favour of God, with which the practice of virtue is 
connected. 

If, my brethren, you go back only as far, as the be- 
ginning of the seventeenth century, you will find vast 
numbers of men, who honestly and gloriously con- 
temned the means of living, and the honours of the 
world, when weighed with the dictates of conscience 
and fidelity to their God. " Take away these goods," 
said they, " they are not worth our peace." Two 
thousand ministers of the gospel, at the period of which 
I am speaking, were ejected from their livings for their 
nonconformity to the church of England ; and many of 
them were hunted, with a malignant fury, from corner 
to corner, until the burden of their sorrows sunk them 
to the grave. 

The conduct of the puritan fathers of Newengland il- 
lustrates the same sentiment of heroick piety. You 
well know, my brethren, the motives, which governed 
them in leaving the wealth, society, and comforts of 
Europe, for the wilds of America. They were unwil- 
ling to dwell, where they could not enjoy the presence 



236 SERMON I. 

of God. Resolved on worshipping God in spirit and 
in truth, they accounted no enterprises hazardous, and 
no sacrifices dear, which promised them so rich a priv- 
ilege. They valued their country, but they valued 
more dearly the rights of conscience. They loved their 
lives, but they loved their God more. They esteemed 
the civil and local immunities of their nation, but they 
'esteemed, far more highly, the opportunity of educating 
their children in the fear of God ; in a knowledge of the 
first and inalienable duties of the rational nature ; and of 
rearing a pious, sober, and righteous generation. It 
was under the impression of these sentiments, that the 
pilgrims first sought an asylum in Holland, and after- 
wards crossed the Atlantick. It was from a regard to 
the approbation of God, that, as soon as they touched 
these shores, they dedicated themselves and their chil- 
dren to his service ; erected temples for his worship ; 
instituted colleges for the promotion of science and vir- 
tue ; and sowed the seeds of learning, piety, and good 
manners, wherever they planted a tree, or broke the 
soil. The neighbouring university and the numerous 
inferiour schools of literature, in this commonwealth, are 
so manv vesti2:es of their wisdom and beneficence. In 
particular, do the churches in this metropolis and vicin- 
ity give proof of their zeal for religion ; of their concern 
for the house of the Lord and its services ; and of their 
determination to support, at whatever expense, the inter- 
ests of learning and morals. 

With what reverence and gratitude do we cherish the 
memory of men, who seemed to incorporate themselves 
with whatever promised to advance the Redeemer's 
kingdom and the interests ot posterity ! Wherever we 



SERMON I. 23f 

aast our eyes, we are saluted with tokens of their piety 
and care. So sincere and zealous were they to give a 
tincture of holiness to all their doings, that their civil 
polity was in a manner borrowed from the bible. They 
valued the approbation of their minds, more than the ap- 
plause of the world, and they feared no other powerj 
than God. 

Such, my brethren, were the founders of this church, 
who came to this country to worship God agreeably to 
the dictates of conscience ; to serve him rather with the 
mind, than with the precisions of bodily posture ; and 
to honour him rather by a remarkable piety and holiness 
of life, than by a ritual, addressed to the imagination 
and the senses. 

The history, which precedes this discourse, is evi- 
dence, that these principles were kept in view by your 
worthy predecessors. They were uniformly the support- 
ers of piety, order, and the rights of conscience. From 
the gathering of this church, to the present hour, its 
members have not ceased to worship God in the name of 
Christ. They have regularly maintained the ministry 
and ordinances of our common Lord. They have been 
attentive to the order and discipline of the churches, 
and the edification of individuals. And whilst they 
have duly respected the forms of antiquity, and opposed 
an innovating temper, they have cherished a laudable 
spirit of improvement. The freedom of our civil gov- 
erntnent has tended to abate the rigour of ecclesi- 
astical courts ; and the severity, with which discipline 
was formerly administered, has latterly been unknown 
among you. You have begun to believe, that the pow- 
er of councils is advisory merely ; that the only platform 



238 SERMON I. 

of church government, which is legitimate and obliga- 
tory, is contained in the scriptures ; that there is, upon 
earth, no iiifellible head of the church ; that we have only 
one master, even Chiist, and one only father, even God. 

Tiiese articles of belief, my brethren, have, for many 
yeurs, been i'lnnly fixed in the minds of the members 
of this church. May these capital objects of our re- 
ligious association be kept constantly in view i 

Through all the changes, incident to an ancient insti- 
tution, there has never been a time, in which you have 
not devoted tlie Lord's day, either by yourselves, or in 
union with a sister church, to the worship of God and 
christian edification. 

The covenant, which was signed at Charlestown, on 
the twenty -seventh of August, 1630, was renewed in 
Boston, on the sixteenth day of October, 1632. It was 
then that this ecclesiastical establishment was begun. In 
that year was built the first edifice, which was ever rear- 
ed for publick worship in the town of Boston. It stood 
at some distance from this place, and vi^as far less spa- 
cious and magnificent, than even this ancient house. 
But its thatched roof and walls of mud answered all the 
purposes of marble temples with their gilded domes and 
cushioned altars. Enclosed in that humble meeting- 
house were some of the noblest and purest spirits, that 
ever bore the christian name. There the venerable 
Wilson exercised the functions of the pastoral office 
with the meekness of Moses, and the benevolence of 
St. John. There the learned, ethical, and eloquent Cot- 
ton expounded the scriptures with the boldness of an 
inspired prophet, and dictated, with holy zeal, the meas- 
^ires of both church and state. There the excellent 



SERMON I- 23P 

Winthrop, the inflexible Dudley, and the godly Novvcj 
altcrncitcly prayed and prophesied, and gave the whole 
weight of their talents and influence in favour of evan- 
gelical principles and manners. 

In the second edifice, which was completed in 1640, 
and stood till 1711, were still heard the teachings of 
Wilson and Cotton. It was there too, where the co- 
pious and masterly Norton urged home the doctrines of 
the gospel, upon the consciences of sinners ; where 
Davenport lifted his aged voice in pious supplications ; 
where Allen guarded the flock against the fanaticism of 
innovators ; where Oxenbridge poured forth his elo- 
quence before the great congregation ; where the scien- 
tifick Wadsworth perspicuously taught the way of sal- 
vation ; where the energetick Bridge called sinners to 
repentance ; and where the persecuted Moody and the 
unoffending Bailey generously lent their aid to the ser- 
vice of the sanctuary. 

The present house was built in 1712, and has re- 
sounded with the instructions of Wadsworth and Bridge^ 
whom I have already named, and here my three imme- 
diate predecessors have publickly laboured. Yes, here 
the worthy Foxcroft exhorted his hearers to become rec- 
onciled unto God, through a blessed mediator. Here 
Chauncy's erudition dispelled the glooms of ignorance 
and fanaticism, and taught his hearers to offer to their 
God a reasonable service. And here the admirable 
Clarke, equally distinguished for his biblical and classi- 
cal knowledge, charmed his hearers to the knowledge 
and love of their duty. 

In addition to the regular services of the ministers of 
this church;, the several edifices, which they hnvc bnilt 



240 SERMON I. 

have been devoted to the weekly labours of the neigh- 
bouring clergy. As early, as the settlement of Mr. 
Cotton, the 5th day or thursday lecture was begun to be 
preached. It was maintained by the ministers of this 
church, until 1679, when, at the request of the magis- 
trates, and by a vote of this church, the ministers of the 
Old North and Old South churches, then the only min- 
isters in town, were invited to take their turns in preach- 
ing this lecture. From that period to the present, as 
often, as a minister adjoins himself to the Boston Asso- 
ciation, he is requested, as a thing of course, to take his 
turn in preaching the thursday lecture. There was a 
time, when this lecture was suspended, about ten months, 
in the years 1775 and 1776. Dr. Andrew Eliot preach- 
ed the last of the old series, and the first of the new. 
How many excellent sermons has this institution been 
the means of producing ! What an incentive to lauda- 
ble emulation among the divines of this metropolis ! 

But this place is henceforth no more to be a scene of 
moral and religious entertainment. We are going to 
the fourth spot and the fifth house, which have been de- 
voted by this church to divine service. The history 
and habits of our society show, that it has indulged no 
superstition in regard to the places, modes, and times of 
religious homage, 

W^e sometimes wish, and wish in vain, for the clear 
intimations of the divine will, which the Jews enjoy- 
ed. To us no Urim answers. For us no priest in 
gorgeous habiliments, supplicates the divine benediction. 
The time was, when a certain mountain in Judea alone 
was deemed holy ; and the belief still is, in many parts of 
i::hristcndomj that particular forms arc exclusively ac> 



SERMON I. ^4i 

ceptable to the most high God. But, to rational chris- 
tians, the hour has long since come, when true worship- 
pers worship the Father in spirit and in truth ; when 
every place is accounted holy, in which the one living 
and true God is adored by enlightened understandings 
and honest hearts, and where the rituals of religion are 
made subservient to a virtuous life. To the ancient 
jew indeed Jehovah declared, " In all places, where I 
record my name, there will I come 'unto thee and bless 
thee." And true it was, that, where that awful name 
was not inscribed, the priest offered no sacrifice, and 
the prophet waited in vain the inspiration of his God. 
Now, wherever there is a heart to pray, there the altar 
and the sacrifice are made ready. Now, wherever two 
or three are met together, in the name of Christ, there 
his father and our father, his God and our God will be 
in the midst of us, to listen to our requests, to pardon 
our sins, to sustain us under the troubles of life, and to 
grant us consolation and encouragement in our heaven- 
ly course. 

Farewell, then, ye venerable walls ! you are not 
necessary to the purity of our worship. Much as we 
have loved this ancient habitation of the Most High, 
and notwithstanding the tenderness, with which we 
would treat the feelings of local devotion, we disclaim 
the idea, that, in relinquishing this for a more spacious 
and convenient church, we are guilty of robbing God 
of his dues, or the community of their sacred rights. 
No. We violate none of the laws of God in betterinp- 

o 

our accommodations for publick worship. We break 
none of the commandments of Jesus Christ, in exchang- 
ing a house, which is exposed to the noise and dust of a 



24j SEiaiOX I 

publick street, lor one, which is remote from the busi- 
ness and amusements of the town. 

To my heart this edifice is dear, from various cir- 
cumstances. But to say, that the removal is attended 
with no painful sensations, we do not. Here it was, my 
brethren, that I received the charge of your souls, and 
here have I oi'ten renewed to you my vows of fidelity. 
Here we have frequently sitten, under the banner of Je- 
sus, and his fruit has been sweet to our taste. How of- 
ten have we here eaten the bitter herbs of penitence for 
past offences, and taken to our lips the cup of joy and 
salvation ! Here have I baptized and instructed your 
children, endeavouring to form them to the temper and 
habits of Jesus. 

In uttering my own feelings, I have no doubt of ex- 
pressing" yours. It is true, not one of you present con- 
tributed personally, either of your wealth or wisdom, to 
the identical establishments, of which I have been 
speaking. But, God be praised, you have continued to 
walk in the steps of your fathers. There has never 
been a time, when you have been unwilling to provide 
things decent and honourable in the sight of all men, for 
the support of religious instruction, and for rendering 
commodious and amiable the tabernacles of our God. 
The church, which you have recently built, and in which 
you expect shortly to worship the God of your fathers, 
is another confirmation of the truth, deduced from the 
text, that good men desire the presence of God. If 
there were no zeal in this society for the maintenance of 
sabbatical rites, the advantageous arrangement, which 
you have lately made, would not have taken place. 
However therefore we may m this age be blamed for 



SERMON 1 i443 

our inferiority in religious zeal to our puritan ances 
tors, we are yet willing to make some sacrifices for the 
honour of God and the religion of Jesus. In every part 
of our country, there are some to be found, and thous- 
ands, I hope, in this capital of the state, who would be 
unhappy in a privation of sacred privileges, and who arc 
willing to deny themselves many enjoyments, and prac- 
tise many mortifications, for the love they bear to the 
interests of religion, and the hope they entertain of its 
blissful rewards. 

There is in man a propensity to roam. He loves 
novelty and variety. Were it not for this disposition, 
no improvements would be made ; no sciences nor arts 
would be cultivated. Society would remain stationary, 
or rather be retrograde. Every man would contentedly 
continue in the condition, in which his father left him, 
and indolence, torpor, and sensuality would creep on 
all the bodily and mental faculties. Look at the condi- 
tion of the Chinese. Shut up within themselves, they 
have no enterprise nor ambition. The understanding is 
shackled,and errours are perpetuated ; and, though they 
may be free from the agitations of more improved soci- 
ety, their repose is that of the grave. 

And now, Lord, what wait we for ? What is our 
heart's desire ? Is it wealth ? Or splendour ? Or 
power ? Or the pleasures of sense ? No, thou om- 
niscient being, thou knowest,that we want thy presence. 
We want the rest, which springs from peace of con- 
science, from sense of repentance, hope of thy pardon 
and the prospect of heaven. If thy presence go not 
with us in the bestowment of these favours, carry us 
not up hence. 



S44 SEUMON I. 

Justified therefore, my brethren, to our own con- 
»ciences, in this important transaction, let our future 
conduct be such, as shall meet the approbation of God. 
For let it never be forgotten, that, if we would have 
God's presence go with us, we must go with God's 
presence. We must fear the divine power, imitate the 
divine benevolence, and obey the intimations of the di- 
vine will. 

Finally. In whatever place and under whatever cir- 
cumstances we may hereafter celebrate the praises of 
God, let us be careful to render him an acceptable ser- 
vice. Henceforth, if possible, let our worship be puri- 
fied from all superstition. Let no motives of worldly 
interest or ambition enter into our religious performan- 
ces. Let us carr}^ with us this truth to our new tem- 
ple, and bear it about with us continually, that the pub- 
lick offices of devotion are designed to promote the 
practice of virtue ; and that, if they fail of attaining this 
end, the Almighty will demand of us, " Who hath 
required this at your hands to tread my courts ?" 

May the author of wisdom and power teach us the 
knowledge, and aid us in the performance of our whole 
duty, that,having served him voluntarily, sincerely, and 
faithfully, on the earth, we may at last be admitted to 
the general assembly and church of the first born in. 
heaven ! Amen, 



TH£ QESIRES OP GOOD MEN WILL BE GRATIlrlEli. 



A SERMON, 

DELIVERED AT FIRST CHURCH, BOSTON, ON THURSDAY, 21 JULY, 
1808, WHEN DIVINE SERVICE WAS FIRST PERFORMED IX 
THAT EDIFICE. BY WILLIAM EMERSON, THE PASTOR. 

Exod. xxxiii. 14. 
My presence shall go with thee, and I will give thee rest. 

A ND is there a place in the universe, where thou art 
not ? Omnipresent and eternal God ! Whither shall 
we go from thy spirit ? Or whither shall wc fly from thy 
presence ? The immensity of space is thy constant 
abode, and every portion of it is filled with thy glory. 

Yes, my brethren, the vast creation is the dwelling- 
place of the Most High. Every ray of light is a proof 
of his presence. The awful womb of night is the pa- 
vilion of his rest. You feel his breath in every wind, 
that blows. His pencil is at work in every opening 
flower. His voice is audible in the musick of the for- 
est as well, as in the thunder of the skies and the roar of 
earthquakes. To mortal eyes he is indeed invisible. 
You go forward, but he is not there ; and backward, 



246 SERAI y\ 11. 

but you do not perceive him ; yet he is as really present 
in tliis place, as ye yourselves ; and you can as easily fly 
from yourselves, as from the beams of his eye, or the 
grasp of his hand. 

Althougli however the presence of God is universal, it 
is not yet universally manifest. The Deity was as truly 
present in the bush, which Moses saw, before, as after, 
it was enveloped in flames. He was as really existing 
in all portions of the aerial expanse, always, as when the 
pillars of smoke and of fire conducted the steps of the 
hebrew pilgrims. 

To this extraordinary and benignant display of the 
divine presence the venerable prophet alludes in the 
text. But a most heinous offence of the Jews awakened 
the anger of the Almighty, and caused him to threaten 
them with the loss of his presence. As God however 
is usually better to us, than our fears, and always better, 
than our deserts, so, in the case before us, he repented 
of the neglect, which he thought to show to the erring 
Israelites ; and he showed it not. Upon their penitence 
and promises of obedience, he blotted out their sin, 
and renewed his declarations to conduct and settle them 
in the land of Canaan. " My presence shall go with 
thee, and I will give thee rest." 

Although there is a propensity in man to roam, yet 
there is also in his nature an almost uncopquerable love 
of rest. These two permanent principles in human na- 
ture the Creator has set over, one against the other, as 
mutual, salutary checks to the excesses of each. Thus 
if, in the ardour of youth, we love to go in quest of ad- 
ventures, in the torpor of age we are desirous of repose. 
We are with difficulty prevailed upon to quit our native 



SERMON II. 24: 

tir, and remove to scenes, with which we have associa- 
ted no sentiments of tenderness and affection. 

Yet no man, in this probationary state, is permitted to 
gratify all the wishes of his heart. Good and evil arc 
wisely blended together, in every stage of our terrestrial 
career. Contrary to their wishes, many times, those, 
who love tranquillity, arc obliged to enter into the tu- 
mult and confusion of the world ; and there are those 
again, who delight in the bustle and noise of the multi- 
tude, who are compelled to walk in the path of seclusion. 

Such, nevertheless, is the versatile nature of man, the 
all conquering power of habit, and the unchangeable 
goodness of God, that the ingredients of happiness arc 
ever within the reach of virtuous men. A man, at 
case in his conscience, and satisfied with his own en- 
deavours, can hardly be rendered miserable. A faithful 
servant of God may assuredly calculate on the favour of 
him, whose favour is life, and whose loving kindness is 
better than life. The presence of God may be always 
expected by a virtuous community. The desires of 
good men, having for their object the approbation and 
guidance of heaven, cannot fail of being eventually 
gratified. If God is infinitely good, he never would 
have created human beings, unless, in favour of those 
beings, he intended to display the benignity of his na- 
ture. The very existence of man is a proof of the 
goodness of God. The desire of happiness, in a crea- 
ture, evinces the possibility of a happy condition. The 
appetites of hunger and thirst afford proof, that bread 
and water may be obtained ; and they, who hunger and 
thirst after righteousness,are already pronounced happy ; 
so certain is it, that they will be filled. 



::48 SERMON II. 

The whole tcnour of the scripture promises is in la. 
vour of tlie sentiment, that God is the protector of good 
men, and that he will grant them the desire of their 
hearts. Our Saviour teaches, that God is better, than 
the best of parents. " If ye, being evil, know how to 
give good gifts unto your children, how much more 
shall your heavenly father give good things unto them 
who ask him." 

The conduct of the divine providence towards the 
virtuous, in every age, has been a beautiful illustration 
of the same consolatory truth. Recollect, my brethren, 
the lives of those eminently good men, whose pious de- 
sires were mentioned in the preceding discourse. You 
will find, that they had a sense of the divine favour, and 
a hope of the divine guidance. See the presence of 
God with Abel, in the witness which he received, that 
he was righteous. Enoch, before his translation, had 
this testimony, that he pleased God. The presence of 
God was eminently with Noah, whilst building the ark, 
and was afterwards his salvation and joy. Abraham, 
Isaac, and Jacob, though they did not receive the prom- 
ises, had yet the favour of God, in this world, and died 
in expectation of a better country, than Canaan supplied. 
The presence of God was with the patriarch Joseph, and 
the divine counsels wonderfully prospered in his hand. 
And Moses surely, among whose records the text is 
found, was extraordinarily the subject of divine favour., 
So too were Joshua, Caleb, and the posterity of the he- 
brew emigrants. Jehovah fulfilled the promise, which 
he had made to their fathers ; his presence went with 
them to the country of Palestine, where he gave them 
rest. It was a rest from the yoke of bondage, which 



SEIIMON 11. 249 

they endured in Egypt ; it was a rest from the wenri- 
some journics, which they were obliged to take in tlie 
arabiaii wilderness ; it was, lastly, a rest from the wars, 
Avhich they necessarily waged with savage nations. 
Bat it was not a rest from the ordinary labours of life, 
nor from the calamities, to which our nature is at all 
times exposed. 

Beginning with the sacred founder of our religion, 
and tracing the history of his apostles and followers, 
through every successive period to the present, we shall 
have additional proof, that good men may be sure of 
the guidance of heaven. In every age of the world. 
God'ii presence is with them, and he gives them rest ; 
not indeed a rest of sloth ; not a rest of voluptuous- 
ness ; and not always a rest from the arrows of slander, 
and the sword of persecution ; for every age, probiibly, 
can furnish its Neros and Domitians. But the good 
are generally secure of a tranquil life, and are always 
untroubled by the persecutions of a guilty conscience, 
and the multitude of sorrows, which usually infest the 
path of the wicked. The rest, which God gave to 
good men, under the former dispensation, and to the 
early christians, was a rest from the unfruitful works of 
darkness, and from that sorrow of the world, which 
worketh death. And this kind of rest is the in- 
fallible portion of the righteous in the worst countries, 
and in the worst times. The good man cannot be de- 
prived of his confidence in God, and in the final recti- 
tude and benevolence of the divine administration. To 
be able to praise God in adversity as well, as prospe- 
rity, is to enjoy a peace, which passeth all understand- 
ing. To be superiour to the petty disasters and vexa 



HH 



2JJ SEKMON 11. 

tioiis of lil'c ; to be able steadily to pursue, what is 
bnivcly designed ; to be deaf to the noise of a turbulent 
world, that the whispers of conscience may be distinctly 
heard ; and to descend with cheerfulness and hope into 
the valley of the shadow of death ; this is the peace of 
the just, and the most valuable rest, which, on this side 
heaven, remains for the people of God. 

May those of us, who have experienced the presence 
of God, in moments of danger and affliction, and been 
able to commit our souls to a faithful Creator, when the 
terrible image of death was staring us in the face, be 
duly grateful to the almighty physician of soul and 
body ! Bless the Lord, O my soul, and all that is 
within me, bless his holy name ! Bless the Lord, O 
my soul, and forget not all his benefits ! 

Such a rest, my brethren, as I have been describing 
was eminently the portion of those worthy men, who 
gave a name and a character to Newengland. Where 
was there ever a people, since the age of miracles, more 
favoured of heaven, than these puritan pilgrims ? 

The governour and company of Massachusetts Bay, 
who laid the foundation of this christian society, in 
1630, met innumerable difficulties in accomplishing 
their pious designs. But the presence of God was 
with them to dispel their fears, to increase their faith, 
and to animate their labours. The church, which they 
here planted, became a fruitful field. Their efforts to 
enlarge and enrich it were marvellously blessed. The 
expectations of our fathers were gloriously realized. A 
few years of toil were succeeded by an age of improve- 
ment and of rest. They were no longer tormented 
with the war whoop by night, nor with the sight of con 



SERMON II. 251 

flagrations and ruin by day. We rejoice to reflect upon 
the success, which crowned the exertions of men, who 
were w^armed with a love of truth, freedom, and the 
sreneral welfare to make the most noble sacrifices. We, 

o 

this day, look back with admiration and gratitude to 
God, when we think of the powerful talents, exemplary 
lives, and faithful services of a long succession of pas- 
tors and teachers, who have laboured in this christian 
vineyard, and who arc now at rest with God. 

Let us be thankful, my brethren, for all the good ef- 
fects, which have resulted from this institution, in times 
past ; and for all the advantages, of whatever nature, 
which it now enjoys. 

As far, as fallible mortals can judge, this day is aus- 
picious to our interests, as a religious community. In 
place of an ancient and decaying house, situated in the 
most busy and populous part of the town, w^e possess 
this new, commodious, and beautiful edifice ; where, in 
the silence of retirement, yet in the centre of the territo- 
ry of the metropolis, w^e may worship the Lord our 
God. Not that we contemn those venerable walls, 
which have enclosed so many pious worshippers, and 
which have so often resounded with excellent instruc- 
tions and the divine praises. No, thou God of our 
fathers, thou knouxst,that we, thy servants, " take plea- 
sure in the stones, and favour the dust thereof." 

Nevertheless, we rejoice in a more decent and com- 
fortable church. And we bless God, who giveth skill 
to the children of men, for his remarkable protection of 
and smiles upon its artificers ; for the fortunate circum- 
stances, that have attended its erection and completion ; 
for the activity and firmness, gentleness and discretion. 



SERMON ir. 



which have marked the conduct of the committees of 
the society, in effecting this important arrangement ; and 
for the entire union, subsisting among us. 

Ah, how good and pleasant it is for brethren to dwell 
together in unity ! Next to the favour of God, it is nat- 
ural and right for good men to love the approbation of 
God's children. They may not indeed seek the praise 
of men, as an end ; but it delights their hearts to know, 
that their services are acceptable to the multitude of 
their brethren. It cheers and encourages them, in their 
labours for the good of the community, to know,that they 
have the wishes, prayers, and cooperation of the virtuous. 

Withhold not this encouragement, my brethren, to 
Avell doing, when it is in the power of your hearts and 
tongues to bestow it. It is impossible, in all cases, to 
reward the patriotick for their publick -spirited exer- 
tions. The Israelites were unable to repay the benefi- 
cence of Moses with any thing in their gift ; the least 
they could do, was to give him their gratitude and con- 
fidence. Who does not admire the self-denial and enter- 
prise of Abraham, and what one of his descendants did 
not reflect on his faith, piety, and benevolence, with the 
highest degree of gratitude ? In every age of the 
world, those men are to be ranked among our greatest 
benefactors, who exert themselves to rear temples to the 
living and true God. We honour and love our parents, 
who brought us into the world, and nursed our infancy, 
and guided our childhood ; but those are our parents in 
the truest sense, who labour to create us anew in Christ 
Jesus ; who travail, as it were, in birth again, until 
Christ be formed \\ithin us, the hope of glory ; who in- 
d(3Cttinate us into the principles of the gospel, and 
mould us into the image of its blessed founder. 



SERMON II. 25o 

111 this connexion, the leading members of this socie- 
ty, who have originated and carried into effect the re- 
building of the house of our God, are entitled to our 
o-rateful acknowledsrments. May their successful el- 
forts in this honourable design serve to unite us still 
more fn-mly in the faith and charity of the gospel ; and 
may the bond of peace, by which the members of this 
fraternity have been bound together, continue to be its 
joy and glory to the latest posterity. 

To this end, my brethren, you will keep the object of 
your religious association always in view. You will seek 
the things, which make for peace, and things, whereby 
one may edify another. You will do well to remember, 
that no professions, however pompous, no ceremonies, 
however splendid, no offerings, however costly, will any 
wise atone for moral defects. You will never, I hope, 
imagine, that the presence of God consists in the number 
of your ministers, in the riches of their learning, or in 
the lustre of their talents. The presence of God is real- 
ly and gloriously with you, when you practise virtue ; 
and the absence of virtue cannot be compensated by the 
building of the most gorgeous temples, and exhibitions 
of the warmest zeal. 

It cannot be too deeply imprinted on our minds, that 
the means of virtue are not virtue itself. The contem- 
plation of the Deity, whether in the closet or the church, 
is well, if that contemplation inspires the love and imi- 
tation of his moral attributes. The Deity is a being of 
perfect justice, truth, wisdom, order, and benevolence. 
The worship of such a being naturally fills the mind 
with the admiration of every moral excellence. The 
love of God is the love of truth ; and he, ^vho professes 



2S4 SERMON II. 



to be a servant of God, and, at the same time, disre- 
gardtj his oath, his promise, or liis asseveratioti, is in fact 
a liar. The worship of God is reverence for perfect 
justice. He therefore, who worships God, and yet is 
guiky of fraud, is either ignorant of the nature of reU- 
gion, or practises hypocrisy. The homage, which 
christians pay in pubUek to the Father of the universe, 
is a homage to benevolence ; for he, who mvxXc uil 
things, is the lover and preserver of his creatures. He 
therefore, who worships God, and is, at the same time, 
malevolent and selfish, is either a stranger to religion, or 
mocks and contemns it. Let it then be clearly under- 
stood, that, in dedicating this temple to the most high 
God, we dedicate ourselves to the love, reverence, and 
practice of virtue. We hence consecrate the society to 
the veneration and culture of whatsoever things are 
just, true, honest, lovely, and of good report. 

Forever sacred be this temple to the promotion of 
truth and righteousness ! Long after we, my brethren, 
shall have mingled our dust with the ashes of our fath- 
ers, may this vineyard of the Lord be fair and flourish- 
ing ! May her branches be beautiful, and out of her 
roots may there come forth many strong rods, who 
shall defend the truth of Jesus, and uphold the rights 
and liberties of the church universal. Peace be within 
her walls, and may faith and hope and charity be her 
constant guests ! For our brethren and companions' 
sake, we will now say, peace be within her ! As in 
times past, so in future, may the Highest himself estab- 
lish her ; and of this ancient church may it long contin- 
ue to be said, this and that man was born in her ! 

As for this house, which we have builded, let us re- 
member, brethren, that it is henceforth none other, than 



SEllMOX II. 255 

the house of God and the gate of heaven. How amia- 
ble are thy tabernacles, O Lord of hosts ! We will lierc 
serve thee with gladness, we will come before thy 
presence with singing. We will open the gates of 
righteousness, we will go into them, and praise the 
Lord. For the services of our earthly temples are not 
only a figure, but a foretaste, of the worship of that 
temple above, which is eternal in the heavens. We 
cultivate in these scenes of local devotion, the same 
moral and intellectual powers, which we hope will be 
expanded and brightened, and forever exercised, in the 
celestial courts. Blessed be this day, which cometh 
unto us in the name of the Lord, and let the peace of 
God rest upon this house ! Always may it have the 
power to call off our views and affections from a world 
of sense and sin, and exalt them to a world of intellect 
and order ! Ever may it be a place, where the Father 
of all shall be worshipped in spirit and in truth ; a place 
of serious inquiry and religious improvement; where 
the sympathy of kindred souls shall heighten the glow 
of devotion ; where the sweet communion of saints shall 
strengthen the piety, and cement the love of the broth- 
erhood ; and where the sincerity and fervour of our 
prayers, and the spirituality and harmony of our h}'mns, 
shall form at least some faint resemblance to the wor- 
ship of the general assembly and church of the first 
born in heaven. 

It is there only, my brethren, where the presence of 
God aflfords fulness of joy, and where rivers of pleasure 
flow always at his right hand. Think not therefore 
to obtain permanent rest in this sublunary scene. Ev- 
ery thing wilhin, around, above, below, is continually 



2o6 SERMON Jl. 

saying to us, Arise ye and depart ; for this is not your 
rest. Heaven is the place of your happy destination. 
In that region of purity and peace there will be an ever- 
lasting end of cares and toils and pains ; and its blessed 
inhabitants arc made pillars in the temple of God, and 
go no more out. 

Ah ! when, my brethren, shall we constitute part of 
that glorious and happy convention ? They have no 
longer any use for real temples, and these servile forms. 
The presence of God is indeed with them, and in it 
there is abundance of rest for the weary soul. Theirs 
is in truth a satisfying peace, and a blessed tranquillity. 
Their glorified frames know no fatigue, and their per- 
fected spirits no weariness. No sin assails the soul ; 
no enemy disturbs the joy ; no affliction imbitters the 
bliss, of the beatified saint. All is light and peace and 
felicity ; and their enlarged understandings, free from 
prejudices and err ours and doubts, emulate the knowl- 
edge and improvements of holy angels. 

Let us be virtuous, my brethren, and this presence 
of God, this rest, shall be ours. By a proper reverence 
of God's house and worship on the earth, \ve shall ob- 
tain a seat in the mansions of heaven. Which may 
God of his mercy grant, through Jesus Christ our Lord . 
\men. 



FINIS. 



L&Fe3Q 



014 014 330 3 f 



